Al-Farabi KazNU Improves Access to Essential Digital Services through the Silver University Programme
Digital Literacy for Older Adults
The Institute for Advanced Training and Continuing Education of Al-Farabi KazNU provides computer and digital literacy courses for citizens over the age of 50 under the Silver University Programme.
The programme is intended to help older adults develop the practical skills required to use modern technologies independently in everyday life. Particular attention is given to access to essential digital and public services, safe internet use, online communication and digital payments.
The courses form part of Al-Farabi KazNU’s wider lifelong-learning activities designed to make education and essential knowledge accessible to people of different ages.
Access to Essential Digital Services
The computer literacy course covers the practical use of digital tools and services that have become an important part of everyday life.
The programme includes:
- basic functions of a personal computer;
- safe and responsible use of the internet;
- use of email and messaging applications;
- access to public electronic services through the eGov.kz portal;
- use of online payments and other digital services;
- independent use of commonly required digital tools.
Training in these areas helps participants access public information and services, communicate online and complete routine digital tasks without relying entirely on assistance from others.
Practical Training
Classes are delivered in a practical format, with emphasis on applying and reinforcing the knowledge acquired. Participants work directly with computers and digital services, ask questions and receive guidance adapted to their level of experience.
The course launched in September 2025, with classes held twice a week at the Al-Farabi KazNU Technopark. The first class introduced participants to computer devices and the foundations of computer literacy. farabi.university
This format enables participants to develop digital skills gradually and apply them independently in daily life.
The Silver University Programme
Silver University is implemented by the Institute for Advanced Training and Continuing Education of Al-Farabi KazNU as an educational programme for older adults.
Its objectives include:
- creating conditions for self-education and personal development;
- helping older adults adapt to changes in the digital environment;
- improving digital, financial and legal literacy;
- supporting active participation in social and cultural life;
- expanding access to continuing education;
- providing opportunities for communication and engagement with experts and other participants.
The programme uses accessible language, practical exercises, discussions, round tables and regular interaction with experts. Citizens interested in participating may submit an application to the Institute for Advanced Training and Continuing Education and receive information about admission and the course programme. farabi.university
Online Access to Learning
Al-Farabi KazNU also provides Silver University participants with access to online courses through the Open KazNU educational platform.
The courses have an intuitive structure and allow older adults to study at their own pace. Available areas include information and communication technologies, computer literacy, artificial intelligence, financial literacy, legal literacy and other fields.
Online delivery extends access to learning beyond the physical campus and enables participants to acquire knowledge and skills regardless of their ability to attend face-to-face classes. farabi.university
Contribution to Social Inclusion
Digital literacy is increasingly important for accessing public services, financial services, information and communication.
By teaching older adults how to use computers, the internet, eGov.kz, online payments and communication platforms, Al-Farabi KazNU helps reduce digital exclusion and supports more independent access to essential services.
The Silver University Programme demonstrates the University’s continuing commitment to lifelong learning, social inclusion and the accessibility of practical education for members of the wider community.
Official Documents and Resources
- Computer Literacy Courses under the Silver University Programme
- Launch of the Digital Literacy Course
- Institute for Advanced Training and Continuing Education
- Silver University Online Education
- How Silver University Is Changing Adult Education
Original Publication
The original material, “Computer Literacy Courses under the Silver University Programme,” was published on the official Al-Farabi KazNU website on 16 September 2025. farabi.university