From August 22 to 29, 2026, the international project “Turkey-Kazakhstan Youth Bridge: Young Architects Workshop” was held in Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, aimed at strengthening youth and professional cooperation between Kazakhstan and Türkiye in the fields of architecture and design.

The project brought together young architects, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as graduates from both countries. The participation of representatives from Kazakhstan and Türkiye created an international educational and professional environment for the exchange of knowledge, experience and creative ideas.

As part of the seven-day programme, participants explored Türkiye’s historical, cultural and contemporary architectural heritage. Particular attention was paid to traditional architecture, the architecture of different historical civilizations, as well as contemporary architectural sites in Istanbul.

The educational programme included lectures and practical sessions conducted by leading academics and professional architects, as well as architectural tours and field studies of selected sites. Participants had the opportunity to directly explore significant historical and architectural landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Süleymaniye Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, the Atatürk Cultural Center, as well as contemporary sports and public facilities.

An important part of the programme was practical work in mixed Kazakh-Turkish teams. Participants were presented with real needs and architectural challenges related to the design of public facilities, including sports complexes, stadiums, youth centers and student dormitories. Based on the information provided, the teams developed conceptual project proposals and recommendations addressing the identified challenges.

Working in international teams enabled participants not only to apply their professional knowledge in practice, but also to develop skills in intercultural communication, teamwork, presentation of project solutions and collaborative exploration of innovative approaches.

Participation in the project provided an important platform for professional and academic interaction between representatives of Kazakhstan and Türkiye. Of particular value is the opportunity to further develop cooperation in architectural and design education, implement joint educational initiatives, promote academic exchange and organize international design and project activities.

The “Turkey-Kazakhstan Youth Bridge: Young Architects Workshop” project demonstrated that architecture and design can serve as effective instruments for cultural dialogue and for building sustainable professional connections between young specialists from the two countries.

We express our gratitude to the project organizers, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Türkiye, the host side, academics, architects and all participants for the high level of organization, comprehensive educational programme and creation of an environment for open professional dialogue.