Funding for science increases threefold in Kazakhstan

Funding for science increases threefold in Kazakhstan

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received the country’s Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, who reported that the Digital University model is currently being developed by the ministry. The Head of State was briefed on the adopted Concept for the Development of Higher Education and Science, which determines strategic objectives and indicators of the industry development, for three years. According to Nurbek, Kazakhstan is actively advancing in the world educational space. 21 higher education institutions are included in the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) ranking of the world’s best universities, and four universities in the Times Higher Education global ranking. Branches of eight leading foreign universities will start operating in the country by the year-end. Besides, training of personnel for the field of artificial intelligence started in cooperation with international companies. The role of the National Academy of Sciences is also strengthening, as noted by the minister. The National Council for Science and Technology under the President has already begun its work. In addition, direct funding has been introduced for research institutes engaged in fundamental research. The total science budget for 2023-2025 increased more than threefold and totaled 643 billion tenge.

“Special engineering centers will be built at four regional universities. Additionally, 15 universities will establish academic and research centers. Funding has been allocated to equip laboratories. The new draft law on science and technology policy envisages support for scientists, infrastructure development, and creation of systemic conditions for attracting business to the science commercialization,” said Nurbek.