On April 24, 2026, the International Education Corporation (KazGASA) hosted the final of the “Zhaiyly Orta” small architectural forms design competition, organized as part of the 45th anniversary celebration of the academy.
The competition was held from February 24 to April 24, 2026, in Almaty and aimed at creating a modern, comfortable, and functional urban environment. The organizers were IEC (KazGASA) in partnership with ARCHITAS.
Students from architecture and design programs participated in the competition, presenting projects of urban furniture and art objects dedicated to the academy’s anniversary. A total of 70 applications were submitted by students of IEC, A. Kasteev College, KazGASA College, and Satbayev University. 22 projects advanced to the final stage.
The submitted works were distinguished by a diversity of concepts, relevance of solutions, and focus on practical implementation within the campus environment. Throughout the competition, participants completed all stages of the design process – from concept development and expert consultations to public defense and exhibition of projects.
The projects were evaluated by a professional jury consisting of representatives of the industry and academic community, including practicing architects, designers, and professors. Particular attention was paid to functionality, ergonomics, sustainability, aesthetics, and technological feasibility.
The winners were determined in two categories:
“Urban Furniture”:
- 1st place – Adina Kulkybayeva
- 2nd place – Ekaterina Molodykh and Amira Maidanbek
- 3rd place – Zumrat Massimova, Batyrkhan Atashev, Balnur Bekzatova
“Art Object dedicated to the 45th anniversary of KazGASA”:
- 1st place – Viktoria Plyukhina, Diana Gilyazitdinova, Dinara Abdullayeva
- 2nd place – Anelya Abduvaliyeva, Alina Knagatova, Alua Yerzhankyzy
- 3rd place – Alina Tuyakayeva, Erika Zhanteli, Milana Sakhabutdinova
The best projects were highly appreciated for their originality, quality of development, and potential for practical implementation. Several projects were recommended for further development and implementation on the IEC (KazGASA) campus. ARCHITAS is considering the possibility of producing small architectural forms based on the winning designs.
All participants received certificates, while the winners were awarded diplomas and cash prizes.
The “Zhaiyly Orta” competition became an important step in developing practice-oriented education, strengthening collaboration with industry, and shaping a modern architectural and design environment at IEC (KazGASA).