In 2024, Belarus became a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The corresponding decision was signed on July 4 during the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO member states in Astana. According to Belarusian Education Minister Andrei Ivanets, "We view the SCO platform as an important mechanism for dialogue with friends and key partners. The organization's humanitarian component, including the development of education, is of long-term interest to Belarus."

Belarus's readiness to increase its participation in the SCO's scientific and educational mechanisms is underscored by the accession of six higher education institutions of the Republic of Belarus to the SCO University (among them is P.M. Masherov VSU).

The primary mission of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation University is to facilitate the joint training of highly qualified personnel based on coordinated innovative educational programs in fields that represent priority interests for the economic and social development of the SCO member states.