Meiram Mukhametrakhimovich Begetayev was born on May 1, 1974, in the village of Zarechnoye, Irtysh District, Pavlodar Region, Kazakhstan. He is of Kazakh nationality.
He graduated from Pavlodar State University in 1996 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and from Pavlodar University in 1999 with a degree in Law. He holds a Doctorate in Economics and, in 2017, earned an international IPMA Level C certification as a certified project manager.
Mr. Begetayev began his professional career in 1994 as Chairman of the Student Union at Pavlodar State University. He played an active role in developing student governance and advocating for student rights.
In 1999, he was appointed Director of the Academy of Culture at Pavlodar University. From 1999 to 2012, he held a series of academic and administrative leadership roles at S. Toraighyrov Pavlodar State University. These included research assistant, lecturer, director of the Institute of Public Associations, head of the department for student affairs and social issues, director of the administrative department, vice-rector, and first vice-rector for strategic planning and social development.
In 2012, Mr. Begetayev was elected as a Deputy of the Mazhilis (Lower House) of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan. During his tenure, he was involved in legislative work focused on education, youth, and social policy.
From 2016 to 2019, he served as Deputy Akim (Governor) of Pavlodar Region, overseeing the social and cultural sectors, including education and public services.
Between 2019 and 2021, he served as the Acting Rector of S. Toraighyrov Pavlodar State University, leading institutional reforms and academic modernization efforts.
Since May 2021, Meiram Begetayev has served as Chairman of the Board – Rector of Satbayev University (KazNITU named after K. I. Satpayev), one of Kazakhstan’s leading technical universities. Under his leadership, the university has pursued strategic reforms, expanded international collaboration, and prioritized the integration of research, education, and innovation.
Mr. Begetayev is recognized as a skilled administrator, public figure, and champion of higher education development in Kazakhstan.