M.Kh. DULATY TARSU was established on March 24, 1998 on the basis of three higher educational institutions: the Zhambyl University, the Zhambyl Irrigation and Reclamation Institute, and the Zhambyl Technological Institute of the Light and Food Industries.

Until 2001, the university was headed by UALIKHAN KOZYKEEVICH BISHIMBAYEV. It was a period of spiritual growth of the university. Annually, Dulaty readings began with the participation of scientists from near and far abroad. A handful of land was delivered to Taraz from the grave of a glorious ancestor, which was placed at the base of his monument, installed in front of the main building of TarSU. A university museum was opened. About 1,500 exhibits were installed in it.