Key facts
- Balaji Srinivasan's Network School has reopened in Kazakhstan.
- The school's previous base in Malaysia was shut down by authorities.
- Network School aims to build a 'techno-optimist society' for tech founders and digital nomads.
- Kazakhstan has partnered with Srinivasan to host the school and develop tech initiatives.
- Membership at the new campus starts at $900 per month for basic plans.
Balaji Srinivasan, a former Coinbase tech chief and investor, has relaunched his 'Network School' in Kazakhstan after its previous base in Malaysia was shut down by authorities. The school, described as a 'techno-optimist' commune for tech founders and digital nomads, aims to create a low-cost, meritocratic society.
Srinivasan announced the reopening in Kazakhstan via an X post, stating the new location offers a combination of high tech, low cost, brilliant people, and a competent state with ample space. He envisions a society similar to Singapore but with room for expansion, attracting global talent and training citizens for STEM competitions.
The Malaysian government had shut down the Johor-based Forest City hub in late July, citing that the Network School was not registered as a private higher education institution. The school also faced an immigration investigation concerning the status of its participants, though authorities later confirmed valid documents were held. Srinivasan described the process as 'punishment' and paused investments in Malaysia.
The new campus in Astana, Kazakhstan, is a partnership with the government and promises members accommodation, meals, a gym, coworking space, and technology training, with expedited visas. Kazakhstan is actively seeking to become a tech hub, launching accelerator programs and policies to attract foreign investors and talent. The deputy prime minister expressed commitment to building an ecosystem for AI development and bold ideas.
Membership at the Network School starts at $900 per month for basic plans, with private apartments beginning at $3,000 a month. The initiative is part of a broader trend of Silicon Valley figures exploring the creation of tech-centric societies, such as Peter Thiel's Seasteading Institute and Vitalik Buterin's Zuzalu.