UAPF JSC (hereinafter - UAPF) presents a report on the management of pension assets by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (hereinafter - NBRK) and investment portfolio managers (hereinafter - IIP) on the website enpf.kz in the section "Indicators - Investment activities".The total volume of pension assets as of March 1, 2025, under the management of the NBRK and IPM amounted to KZT22,650.19 billion. As of this date, the pension assets of the UAPF, which are in trust management of the NBRK, formed through compulsory pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as CPC), compulsory occupational pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as COPC), voluntary pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as VPC), amounted to about KZT22,278.12 billion. The volume of pension assets formed by the employer’s compulsory pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as ECPC), which are in the trust management of the NBRK, is KZT308.83 billion.Pension assets under the management of the IPM amounted to more than KZT63.23 billion. Investment portfolio of pension assets managed by the National Bank of the Republic of KazakhstanThe National Bank, as a trustee of UAPF pension assets, pursues a balanced investment policy: invests in various types of financial instruments by currencies, countries, sectors and issuers.The main areas of investment of pension assets formed through the OPV, OPPV, and DPV, as of March 1, 2025, are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 41.65%, bonds of quasi-state companies - 8.73%, deposits of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 4.67%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 3.48%, shares and depositary receipts of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 1.65%, microfinance organizations - 1.35%.The investment portfolio by currencies in which the financial instruments acquired through the CPC, COPC, and VPC are denominated, as of March 1, 2025, is as follows: investments in national currency - 61.02%, in US dollars - 38.98% of the pension asset portfolio.From the analysis of the structure of the income received, it follows that the income in the form of interest on securities, including on placed deposits and reverse repo transactions, amounted to KZT281.71 billion. The market revaluation of securities, foreign currency, on assets under external management was negative. Other income amounted to KZT2.77 billion.As of March 1, 2025, the return on pension assets of the UAPF for the last 12 months, distributed to the accounts of contributors (beneficiaries), amounted to 13.74% with inflation at 9.4%.The investment directions of the ECPC as of March 1, 2025 are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 79.11%, repo transactions - 16.11%, deposits of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 4.29%.The investment portfolio due to the ECPC includes only financial instruments denominated in national currency.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to the accounts of contributors (beneficiaries), amounted to 14.84%.Let us recall that pension savings are long-term investments. Therefore, it is advisable to analyze the amount of investment income for a period of at least one year. In certain periods, a decrease in return may be observed due to the volatility of foreign exchange rates, changes in the market value of financial instruments, as well as the impact of inflation. Diversification of the investment portfolio, when income from some instruments covers temporary losses on others, ensures the safety and stable return on pension savings in the long term. Thus, investment income in dynamics over the past 3 years shows stable growth, the profitability of pension assets exceeds the inflation rate.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by the NBRK, indicating the issuers and an overview of investment activities are posted on the official website of UAPF. Information on the structure of the portfolio for pension assets formed at the expense of the ECPC is also posted on the enpf.kz website.Investment Portfolio ManagersThe total volume of pension assets under the management of UIP is more than KZT63.23 billion.As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under the trust management of Jusan Invest JSC amounted to more than KZT11.27 billion.The company's main investments: Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) units - 23.37%, Government Securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 20.93%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 18.68%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 7.96%, Repo - 7.08%, corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 5.63%, government securities of foreign states - 4.74%. It should be noted that 65.17% of the portfolio is presented in tenge, 33.53% - in US dollars, 1.30% - in other currencies.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.56%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Jusan Invest JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website.As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under trust management of Halyk Global Markets JSC amounted to approximately KZT5.15 billion.The main investments in the portfolio structure are as follows: "reverse repo" (up to 90 calendar days) - 11.67%, government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 17.91%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 14.66%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.72%, bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.52%, corporate bonds of organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.04%, shares and depositary receipts issued by organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 2.84%.Investments in national currency amounted to 68.34% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 31.66%.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.26%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Halyk Global Markets JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website.As of March 01, 2025, UAPF pension assets under trust management of BCC Invest JSC amounted to more than KZT5.72 billion.Main investment areas: bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 23.90%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 21.29%, corporate bonds of issuers-residents of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 15.36%, REPO - 11.03%, government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 10.08%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 9.00%, units (ETF on indices) - 3.00%.Investments in national currency amounted to 80.36% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 19.64%.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.01%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by BCC Invest JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website.As of March 01, 2025, UAPF pension assets under trust management of Centras Securities JSC amounted to approximately KZT2.11 billion.25.91% were invested in government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 15.79% in repo, 12.68% in bonds of quasi-public organizations, 13.00% in corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 10.64% in bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 6.86% in shares and depositary receipts of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and 6.92% in US government bonds.Investments in national currency amounted to 80.49% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 19.51%.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 14.19%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Centras Securities JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website.As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under trust management of Halyk Finance SO Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC amounted to approximately KZT38.99 billion.The main investments in the portfolio structure are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 25.87%, corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 12.77%, units of Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) - 11.02%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 10.66%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 10.15%, government securities of foreign states - 8.39%, bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 7.55%, "reverse repo" (no more than 90 calendar days) - 5.13%. 62.99% of the portfolio is invested in national currency instruments, and 37.01% in US dollars.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.76%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by the Halyk Finance SO Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC with an indication of issuers is available on the UAPF website.We remind you that from July 1, 2023, contributors can transfer no more than 50% of their pension savings to trust management through compulsory pension contributions (CPC) and compulsory occupational pension contributions (COPC) without taking into account the minimum sufficiency threshold by the investment portfolio manager (IPM), choosing such a company themselves. Contributors who have voluntary pension savings can transfer them to their IPM in the amount of 100%. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/akimat-karakiya/press/news/details/978091?lang=kk

The volume of pension savings, as well as the share of investment income in it, is growing year after year. The net investment income accumulated since 2014 (after the consolidation of pension assets in the UAPF) as of March 1, 2025 amounted to KZT11.46 trillion (for comparison, as of March 1, 2024, it amounted to KZT8.83 trillion). Taking into account the payments made, the share of accumulated net investment income in the total volume of pension savings of Kazakhstanis as of March 1, 2025 is 40.3%, which demonstrates the significant role of investment activities in the structure of citizens' savings (as of March 1, 2024, this figure was 37.4%).  It should be noted that pension savings are long-term investments. Therefore, it is advisable to analyze the amount of investment income for a period of at least one year. In certain periods, a decrease in profitability may be observed due to the volatility of foreign exchange rates, changes in the market value of financial instruments, as well as the impact of inflation.In the medium and long term, a positive real (exceeding accumulated inflation) return on pension savings is ensured. Thus, the accumulated investment return from the foundation of the funded pension system in 1998 until March 1, 2025, with a cumulative total, amounted to 962.28% with inflation for the entire period of 851.90%.Diversification of the investment portfolio, when the income from some instruments covers temporary losses from others, ensures the safety and stable return on pension savings in the long term. Investment income in dynamics over the past 3 years shows stable growth, the return on pension assets exceeds the inflation rate. As of March 1, 2025, the return on pension assets managed by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (NBRK) and formed through compulsory, compulsory occupational and voluntary pension contributions, over the past 12 months, distributed to the accounts of contributors (beneficiaries), amounted to 13.74% with inflation at 9.4%.We also remind you that Kazakhstan has a unique guarantee of the safety of compulsory pension contributions taking into account the inflation rate. In cases of a decrease in return in a separate period, affecting the accumulated return of the contributor upon the occurrence of the right to pension benefits, compensation for the difference is guaranteed by the state.The entire system of investment management and accounting of pension assets is transparent: each contributor has the opportunity to see their investment income in their personal account on the enpf.kz website or in the mobile application.Information on the investment management of UAPF pension assets and on the financial instruments in which UAPF pension assets are placed is published on the official UAPF website (www.enpf.kz) in the “Indicators/Investment activities” section.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/akimat-beyneu/press/news/details/973558?lang=kk

UAPF JSC (hereinafter - UAPF) presents a report on the management of pension assets by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (hereinafter - NBRK) and investment portfolio managers (hereinafter - IIP) on the website enpf.kz in the section "Indicators - Investment activities". The total volume of pension assets as of March 1, 2025, under the management of the NBRK and IPM amounted to KZT22,650.19 billion. As of this date, the pension assets of the UAPF, which are in trust management of the NBRK, formed through compulsory pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as CPC), compulsory occupational pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as COPC), voluntary pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as VPC), amounted to about KZT22,278.12 billion. The volume of pension assets formed by the employer’s compulsory pension contributions (hereinafter referred to as ECPC), which are in the trust management of the NBRK, is KZT308.83 billion.Pension assets under the management of the IPM amounted to more than KZT63.23 billion. Investment portfolio of pension assets managed by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan The National Bank, as a trustee of UAPF pension assets, pursues a balanced investment policy: invests in various types of financial instruments by currencies, countries, sectors and issuers.The main areas of investment of pension assets formed through the OPV, OPPV, and DPV, as of March 1, 2025, are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 41.65%, bonds of quasi-state companies - 8.73%, deposits of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 4.67%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 3.48%, shares and depositary receipts of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 1.65%, microfinance organizations - 1.35%. The investment portfolio by currencies in which the financial instruments acquired through the CPC, COPC, and VPC are denominated, as of March 1, 2025, is as follows: investments in national currency - 61.02%, in US dollars - 38.98% of the pension asset portfolio.From the analysis of the structure of the income received, it follows that the income in the form of interest on securities, including on placed deposits and reverse repo transactions, amounted to KZT281.71 billion. The market revaluation of securities, foreign currency, on assets under external management was negative. Other income amounted to KZT2.77 billion.As of March 1, 2025, the return on pension assets of the UAPF for the last 12 months, distributed to the accounts of contributors (beneficiaries), amounted to 13.74% with inflation at 9.4%. The investment directions of the ECPC as of March 1, 2025 are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 79.11%, repo transactions - 16.11%, deposits of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 4.29%.The investment portfolio due to the ECPC includes only financial instruments denominated in national currency.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to the accounts of contributors (beneficiaries), amounted to 14.84%. Let us recall that pension savings are long-term investments. Therefore, it is advisable to analyze the amount of investment income for a period of at least one year. In certain periods, a decrease in return may be observed due to the volatility of foreign exchange rates, changes in the market value of financial instruments, as well as the impact of inflation. Diversification of the investment portfolio, when income from some instruments covers temporary losses on others, ensures the safety and stable return on pension savings in the long term. Thus, investment income in dynamics over the past 3 years shows stable growth, the profitability of pension assets exceeds the inflation rate. A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by the NBRK, indicating the issuers and an overview of investment activities are posted on the official website of UAPF. Information on the structure of the portfolio for pension assets formed at the expense of the ECPC is also posted on the enpf.kz website. Investment Portfolio Managers The total volume of pension assets under the management of UIP is more than KZT63.23 billion.As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under the trust management of Jusan Invest JSC amounted to more than KZT11.27 billion.The company's main investments: Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) units - 23.37%, Government Securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 20.93%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 18.68%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 7.96%, Repo - 7.08%, corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 5.63%, government securities of foreign states - 4.74%. It should be noted that 65.17% of the portfolio is presented in tenge, 33.53% - in US dollars, 1.30% - in other currencies.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.56%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Jusan Invest JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website. As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under trust management of Halyk Global Markets JSC amounted to approximately KZT5.15 billion.The main investments in the portfolio structure are as follows: "reverse repo" (up to 90 calendar days) - 11.67%, government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 17.91%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 14.66%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.72%, bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.52%, corporate bonds of organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 11.04%, shares and depositary receipts issued by organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 2.84%.Investments in national currency amounted to 68.34% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 31.66%. As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.26%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Halyk Global Markets JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website. As of March 01, 2025, UAPF pension assets under trust management of BCC Invest JSC amounted to more than KZT5.72 billion.Main investment areas: bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 23.90%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 21.29%, corporate bonds of issuers-residents of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 15.36%, REPO - 11.03%, government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 10.08%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 9.00%, units (ETF on indices) - 3.00%.Investments in national currency amounted to 80.36% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 19.64%.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.01%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by BCC Invest JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website. As of March 01, 2025, UAPF pension assets under trust management of Centras Securities JSC amounted to approximately KZT2.11 billion.25.91% were invested in government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 15.79% in repo, 12.68% in bonds of quasi-public organizations, 13.00% in corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 10.64% in bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 6.86% in shares and depositary receipts of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and 6.92% in US government bonds.Investments in national currency amounted to 80.49% of the portfolio, in US dollars - 19.51%.As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 14.19%.A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by Centras Securities JSC, indicating the issuers, is presented on the UAPF website. As of March 01, 2025, pension assets under trust management of Halyk Finance SO Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC amounted to approximately KZT38.99 billion.The main investments in the portfolio structure are as follows: government securities of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 25.87%, corporate bonds of issuers of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 12.77%, units of Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) - 11.02%, bonds of second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 10.66%, corporate bonds of foreign issuers - 10.15%, government securities of foreign states - 8.39%, bonds of quasi-public organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan - 7.55%, "reverse repo" (no more than 90 calendar days) - 5.13%. 62.99% of the portfolio is invested in national currency instruments, and 37.01% in US dollars. As of March 1, 2025, the return on UAPF pension assets over the past 12 months, distributed to contributors’ (beneficiaries’) accounts, was 15.76%. A detailed structure of the investment portfolio of financial instruments managed by the Halyk Finance SO Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC with an indication of issuers is available on the UAPF website. We remind you that from July 1, 2023, contributors can transfer no more than 50% of their pension savings to trust management through compulsory pension contributions (CPC) and compulsory occupational pension contributions (COPC) without taking into account the minimum sufficiency threshold by the investment portfolio manager (IPM), choosing such a company themselves. Contributors who have voluntary pension savings can transfer them to their IPM in the amount of 100%. UAPF was founded on August 22, 2013 on the basis of GNPF APF JSC. The founder and shareholder of the UAPF is the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan represented by the State Institution Committee of State Property and Privatization of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Trust management of UAPF pension assets is carried out by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In accordance with the pension legislation, the UAPF attracts compulsory pension contributions, employer’s compulsory pension contributions, compulsory occupational pension contributions, voluntary pension contributions, as well as carries out enrollment and accounting of voluntary pension contributions formed at the expense of the unclaimed amount of guaranteed compensation for the guaranteed deposit, transferred by the organization carrying out mandatory guarantee of deposits, in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On mandatory guarantee of deposits placed in second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan", ensures the implementation of pension benefits. The Fund also carries out accounting of target assets and target requirements, accounting and crediting of target savings (TS) to target savings accounts, payments of TS to their recipients in bank accounts, accounting for returns of TS in the manner determined by the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan within the framework of the National Fund for Children program (More details at www.enpf.kz).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-rudnyi-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/966441?lang=kk

How is the education system changing in Kazakhstan: new schools, teachers' salary increases, and provision of hot meals for students"It is the duty of the state to create favorable conditions for the education of every child, regardless of their place of residence." Large-scale state programs implemented in recent years contribute to this.Construction of new schools in the country is proceeding at an unprecedented pace. According to the instructions of the head of state, this year, for the fourth year in a row, about 1,000 rural schools are being modernized. This allows not only to improve learning conditions for children, but also to reduce the gap in the quality of education between urban and rural schools.In the last three years, the material and technical base of more than 4,000 schools has been updated. More than 2,000 educational institutions have opened modern classrooms for robotics, chemistry, biology, physics and STEM. If we consider only the results of 2024, 1621 subject classrooms were equipped in 967 schools. Work in this direction is still ongoing, by 2029 it is planned to open at least 7,000 modern subject classrooms in schools of the country.Another important factor in improving the quality of education is the introduction of digital technologies. As part of national initiatives, 100% of school textbooks have been digitized, and access to high-speed Internet has improved significantly in 95.2% of schools. Educational platforms are being introduced, elements of artificial intelligence are being integrated into the educational process. All these measures are aimed at preparing students for the challenges of the future and forming digital skills in them from an early age.The quality of education is directly related to the level of professionalism of the pedagogical community. In this context, it is necessary to mention the ongoing work on the state's regular support of teachers, increasing their status and material potential. Starting from 2020, the salary of teachers has increased by 2 times, and teachers with qualification categories will be paid overtime for this from 35% to 50% of their official salary. Today, about 300,000 of the 400,000 teachers working in the secondary education system are paid such bonuses.Special attention is paid to the support of rural teachers, their salaries are at least 25% higher than their counterparts in cities. This contributes to the attraction of qualified personnel to the regions.From September 2023, according to the order of the President, free hot meals were introduced for all elementary school and socially vulnerable students. More than 192 billion tenge were allocated from local budgets to support 1.7 million students. Also, in order to improve the quality of food, the requirements for kitchen staff have been strengthened, the calculation of free meals recipients has been automated, and daily monitoring has been introduced.In addition, more than 510,000 socially vulnerable students have been provided with school supplies within the framework of the "Education for Universal" fund.From 2025, it is planned to introduce social support measures for students of private schools.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ulytau-karazhal/press/news/details/964874?lang=kk

Currently, about 1,000 convicted citizens are registered with the district and city probation service of the Department of the Penal Correction System in the Kyzylorda region. Being under the control of probation, some citizens violate the order of serving their sentences by not fulfilling their duties assigned by the court. In the first three months of 2025, a court decision was issued against 19 convicts who committed such offenses, which is aimed at serving the outstanding part of the sentence in a correctional institution. Probation service inspectors carry out daily preventive measures to monitor the observance of law and order by convicts. The residential address of each convict is checked and it is monitored so that they do not visit public places in the evening. Individual explanatory conversations are conducted with people who are prone to violating the order of serving their sentences, and legal consultations are provided.In addition, probation inspectors work closely with local executive authorities and law enforcement agencies, and take a range of measures to re-socialize convicted citizens and prevent them from re-visiting offenses. – For citizens registered for probation, meeting the restrictions set by the court is their main task. It is warned that stricter measures will be taken within the framework of the law if they ignore these requirements. Violation of the order of serving the sentence may lead to their re-incarceration. Therefore, I believe that citizens who are registered for probation should also take a responsible approach to the opportunities provided to them and not commit repeated offenses," says Galamat Kulmanov, chief specialist of the probation Services management group.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/duiskzl/press/news/details/964385?lang=kk

The Government hosted a meeting of the Headquarters for Ensuring Economic Growth, chaired by Serik Zhumangarin, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Minister of National Economy. Issues concerning the economic development of the East Kazakhstan and Abai regions, as well as the growth potential of the IT sector, were addressed.Akim of Abai Region, Berik Uali, provided information on the main indicators of the region's economic growth. Over the first 2 months of this year, growth was recorded in agriculture (102,3%), construction (112,7%), domestic trade (109,5%), transport (107,1%), and communications (108,9%). The volume of attracted investments since the beginning of the year amounted to 31 billion tenge, of which 83,8% were non-budgetary funds.A pool of 27 investment projects totaling 2,7 trillion tenge, creating 8,4 thousand jobs, has been formed in the region. Eight projects worth 30 billion tenge, creating 747 new jobs, are planned for implementation this year. These include the sunflower oil refining, bottling, and packaging plant of «Qazaq Astyq Group» LLP (7,1 billion tenge), the production expansion of «Semaz» LLP (10 billion tenge), the production of paper and cardboard products by «Kazpoligraph» LLP (6 billion tenge), two irrigation projects involving the installation of 18 sprinkler machines, the construction of a gold recovery plant for the development of the «Rodnikovoye» deposit by Eastern Gold LLP, and others.At the Headquarters meeting, the Akim of the region highlighted an issue with the project to construct the Eurasia Agro Semey LLP meat processing plant, specifically regarding the financing required to connect high-voltage power lines to the facility. Following the Headquarters meeting, this issue was included in the task list for the implementation of investment projects in other regions with similar requests.In the East Kazakhstan Region (EKR), where industry accounts for 40% of the gross regional product (GRP), efforts are actively underway to diversify the economy. The most promising areas, ensuring maximum productive employment, population income, and tax revenues from Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs), include tourism, processing of industrial and agricultural products, digitalization, and infrastructure. For 2025, the region's Key Performance Indicator (KPI) for investment in fixed assets is set at over 1,65 trillion tenge (2024 – 768,2 billion tenge). Over the first two months, 81,7 billion tenge in investments have already been attracted to the region. The region's investment portfolio consists of 111 projects worth 1,4 trillion tenge, creating over 7 thousand jobs. This year, the completion of 9 projects totaling 101,7 billion tenge (688 jobs) is planned. Among them are the modernization of foundry production at «VOSTOKMASHZAVOD» JSC (33,8 billion tenge), the construction of a gold recovery plant by «Kaskad-N» LLP (9 billion tenge), the second phase of oil production by «AltynShyghys» LLP (8 billion tenge), and others.The region's Akim, Nurymbet Saktaganov, voiced a number of barriers hindering the development of investment projects in the region. For example, «Bukhtarma Cement Company» LLP saw its cement production decrease by 22,8% over the year due to increased costs for railway tariffs and electricity. The company is requesting a temporary reduction in electricity tariffs and railway transportation charges during the period of equipment modernization. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Committee for Regulation of Natural Monopolies to explore all possible solutions to the issue.Also underway in the region is a project for the reconstruction and modernization of a particleboard production plant. The project will create over 500 jobs and contribute to the development of the woodworking industry, as the region's current demand for laminated particleboard is fully met by imports. The enterprise is already facing challenges with raw material supply. The Akim of the region raised the possibility of allocating raw materials directly from the State Forest Fund to the domestic producer. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources to address this issue promptly.The Akim also raised several other issues concerning projects in tourism, the construction of a cascade of small hydropower plants (HPPs), and the agro-industrial complex (AIC), which will now be handled by the relevant government departments.The share of information and communication services in Kazakhstan's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at the end of last year was 2,2%, and the physical volume index of the sector grew by 12,9%. Over the first 2 months of this year, strong growth was observed in the provision of Internet access services – up 13,1% compared to the same period last year. The number of mobile and fixed internet subscribers is growing, and the volume of consumed internet traffic is increasing by an average of 15-20% per year. To achieve the sector's economic growth target of 11% in 2025, the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry (MDDIAI) plans to sign several investment agreements this year. Furthermore, a series of projects in the telecommunications sector are envisioned, which will enable the achievement of the planned growth rate for the industry.As noted by Malik Olzhabekov, Vice-Minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry, the country's IT sector is currently developing dynamically. The number of IT companies increased from over 17,9 thousand in 2023 to over 18,6 thousand in 2024. The number of trained IT specialists has exceeded 100 thousand people in recent years. The export of IT services surpassed the half-billion-dollar mark in 2023. According to preliminary data, this figure will reach $700 million in 2024. The volume of IT services provided grew from 946 billion tenge in 2022 to approximately 1,5 trillion tenge in 2024. One of the growth drivers is the international technopark «Astana Hub», where over 1,5 thousand IT companies are registered (425 with foreign participation).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/964384?lang=kk

For the second year, the program National Fund for Children has been implemented, according to which 50% of the foreign currency part of the investment income of the National Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan is annually distributed among children-citizens of Kazakhstan who were born in 2006 and later. Young Kazakhstanis born in 2006-2007, who have reached 18 years of age in 2024-2025, are transferred target savings (TS) to target savings accounts (TSA) opened in the UAPF. They can use these funds to improve their housing conditions and (or) pay for education. In connection with the increasing number of requests to the UAPF from the legal representatives of program participants regarding the lack of information on the e-government Internet resources (website and in the eGov Mobile mobile application) about the price tags accrued to their children born in 2006 and 2007, the UAPF explains that citizens who are adults or will reach 18 years of age in 2025 must independently obtain information about their price tags through their personal account on Internet resources UAPF or e-government. Thus, the UAPF, in accordance with Kazakh legislation, guarantees the secrecy of the TS of their recipients, including information about balances and the movement of money on their TSA. The procedure for paying TS and using them to improve housing conditions and / or pay for education is determined by:- The Rules for the formation and accounting of target requirements, target savings and payments of target savings, as well as the accrual of target requirements, approved by the Decree of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated January 18, 2024 No. 16;- the Rules for the use of payments of target savings from a single accumulative pension fund for the purpose of improving housing conditions in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, approved by order of the Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated February 26, 2024 No. 76;- the Rules for the use of payments of target savings from a single accumulative pension fund for the purpose of paying for education in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, approved by a joint order of the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated February 7, 2024 No. 51 and the Minister of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated February 12, 2024. The step-by-step algorithm for using TS can be presented as follows:The recipient of TS, who has reached 18 years of age, can check TS independently on the Internet resources of UAPF or e-government, as well as by contacting the UAPF department.For your information, we inform you that for 2023, all TS recipients were credited with 100.52 US dollars, for 2024 - 129.38 US dollars. Children who received their first funds from the National Fund in 2023, with the exception of persons born in 2006, were credited with investment income in the amount of 3.04 US dollars this year. As a result, the target savings of a child born in 2006 are 100.52 US dollars, and those born in 2007 - 232.94 US dollars.The TS recipient (or his/her legal representative) contacts the AO via the Internet resource of the authorized operator (AO), opens a US dollar bank account in the name of the TS recipient, and submits an online application for TS payment.Within 2 working days after reviewing and approving the application for payment, the AO sends an electronic notification to the UAPF about the registered application for payment.Within 5 working days from the date of receipt of the electronic notification from the AO, the UAPF transfers the TS payment amount specified in the application to the TS recipient’s US dollar bank account opened by the AO, or notifies of a refusal indicating the reason.The TS recipient or his/her legal representative, within 45 working days from the date of receipt of the TS amount in the bank account, provides the AO with documents confirming the intended use of the TS payments.Within 10 working days from the date of submission of the documents by the TS recipient, the AO verifies them and transfers the TS payments for their intended purpose.If the TS recipient (or his legal representative) fails to submit documents within 45 working days, the TS payment amount held by the AO is returned to the UAPF.Let us remind you that TS are transferred in US dollars and stored on TSA in UAPF for 10 years. If during this period the citizen does not use these funds, they are transferred to his individual pension account for recording voluntary pension contributions to UAPF, which is automatically opened in his name, in tenge at the official rate of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the date of transfer. Receipt of savings from a voluntary pension account will be carried out in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.You can familiarize yourself with the terms of the program, get instructions, answers to your questions on the website kids.enpf.kz and on the БЖЗҚ ЕНПФ YouTube channel. We also note that a video instruction on the implementation of the "National Fund for Children" program, the algorithm of actions before and after the child reaches adulthood is posted on the БЖЗҚ ЕНПФ YouTube channel  at the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHQNAxfskX8. REFERENCE:Detailed information on payments of target savings for the purpose of improving housing conditions and (or) paying for education by authorized operators, regions and sub-goals can be found on the website enpf.kz   UAPF was founded on August 22, 2013 on the basis of GNPF APF JSC. The founder and shareholder of the UAPF is the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan represented by the State Institution Committee of State Property and Privatization of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Trust management of UAPF pension assets is carried out by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In accordance with the pension legislation, the UAPF attracts compulsory pension contributions, employer’s compulsory pension contributions, compulsory occupational pension contributions, voluntary pension contributions, as well as carries out enrollment and accounting of voluntary pension contributions formed at the expense of the unclaimed amount of guaranteed compensation for the guaranteed deposit, transferred by the organization carrying out mandatory guarantee of deposits, in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On mandatory guarantee of deposits placed in second-tier banks of the Republic of Kazakhstan", ensures the implementation of pension benefits. The Fund also carries out accounting of target assets and target requirements, accounting and crediting of target savings (TS) to target savings accounts, payments of TS to their recipients in bank accounts, accounting for returns of TS in the manner determined by the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan within the framework of the National Fund for Children program (More details at www.enpf.kz).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-rudnyi-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/966425?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/964376?lang=kk

С 20 по 26 марта 2025 года в городе Туркестан прошел весенний чемпионат Республики Казахстан по волейболу среди девушек 2012-2013 года рождения.Ученица Самарской детско-юношеской спортивной школы Камила Тютенева, выступавшая в составе областной сборной, заняла 1 место.Напомним, Камила Тютенева стала трехкратной чемпионкой Казахстана.Тренер: Курманбаев Е. М.Учащиеся Самарской детско-юношеской спортивной школы выступают во всех сферах спорта.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar/press/news/details/964332?lang=kk

Geneva, March 27, 2025 – In continuation of the implementation of one of Kazakhstan's priority foreign policy directions, a discussion on "Human Rights and Nuclear Disarmament" took place on the sidelines of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council.The side event, organized by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Geneva, brought together renowned UN speakers and experts to explore the critical intersection of human rights and nuclear disarmament, fostering further global dialogue on ensuring peace and sustainable development. Key speakers at the discussion included Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan H.E. Mr. Yerlan Alimbayev, Permanent Representative of the Marshall Islands H.E. Ms. Doreen Debrum, representative of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mr. Raphael Pangalangan, and international experts in the field of human rights and nuclear disarmament Mr. Alyn Ware, Mr. Neshan Gunasekera and Ms Ayleen Roy.Permanent Representative Yerlan Alimbayev, noting the particular importance of the panel discussion topic for Kazakhstan, called on the international community to integrate human rights principles into global disarmament efforts, emphasizing that nuclear disarmament is not only a security issue but also a human rights imperative. The Kazakh diplomat noted that our country supports the development of alternative security measures that could replace nuclear deterrence, emphasizing that a world free of nuclear weapons is necessary for the full realization of human rights worldwide.Ambassador Alimbayev concluded his remarks by reaffirming Kazakhstan's readiness to cooperate with international partners to promote nuclear disarmament efforts, ensuring that human rights considerations remain at the heart of these initiatives.The discussion was attended by more than 80 representatives of UN member states and international non-governmental organizations, as well as fellows of the UN Disarmament Programme. The event aroused great interest in the human rights community in Geneva. The importance of nuclear disarmament issue in the context of international human rights law is being discussed for the first time on the margins of the UN Human Rights Council.For reference: The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system made up of 47 States responsible for the promotion and protection of all human rights around the globe.It has the ability to discuss all thematic human rights issues and situations that require its attention throughout the year. It meets at the United Nations Office at Geneva.The Council holds no fewer than three regular sessions a year: in February-March, June-July and September-October. Sessions can be three, four or five weeks long, depending on the programme of work.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/964312?lang=kk

Muscat, March 27, 2025 – The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Sultanate of Oman, H.E. Aidarbek Tumatov, met with the Minister of Finance of Oman, H.E. Sultan Al Habsi, to discuss key areas of economic collaboration.The meeting focused on the most promising sectors for cooperation, particularly in finance and portfolio investment. The Omani side expressed keen interest in Kazakhstan’s experience with the establishment and operation of the Astana International Financial Center, as well as other financial institutions in the country.Additionally, both parties discussed preparations for the upcoming visit of H.E. Sultan Al Habsi to Kazakhstan in May 2025 and explored prospects for expanding Kazakh-Omani investment cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-muscat/press/news/details/964307?lang=kk

The importance of vaccinationVaccination is a simple, safe and effective way to protect against diseases before a person comes into contact with their pathogens. Thanks to her, infant and child mortality and lifelong disability have decreased. Vaccination activates the body's natural defense mechanisms to form resistance to a number of infectious diseases and makes our immune system stronger. Any vaccination is hundreds of times safer than the disease it protects against. Vaccinations are very important for both children and adults. This measure alone is the only means of preventing diseases that cannot be treated or are very difficult to treat (diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B virus, whooping cough). Vaccinations are very important for young children, because their body is very vulnerable to various infections. Vaccination is carried out in accordance with the National Vaccination Calendar of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Vaccination against mumps, rubella, whooping cough, and viral hepatitis B has allowed for a sporadic incidence of these infections. However, this should not be a reason for parents to refuse to immunize their children. As soon as the level of collective immunity decreases, i.e. the stratum of people with antibodies to this infection and necessary to stop the spread of infection, a "return" of infection is inevitable. There is a clear inverse relationship between the level of vaccination coverage and morbidity. The more vaccinated, the fewer people who get sick. Many parents regard vaccinations as something formal, imposed by medical professionals, often without understanding the health-improving nature of vaccine prevention, which leads to an increase in unjustified refusals of vaccination. Parents are interested in their child's health and this should be the basis for forming a positive attitude towards vaccination. Vaccination of children within calendar time limits prevents not only the development of the disease itself, but also the occurrence of severe complications. Preventive vaccinations are carried out free of charge. The well-being of children is the absence of the threat of vaccine-controlled infections and is achieved solely through preventive vaccinations.Yarushko N.A. - head of the USEC of the district of Beimbet MailinaSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-bmalin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/964297?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/964289?lang=kk

Athens, March 26, 2025 — A meeting took place at the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic between the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Timur Sultanovzhin, and the Head of the Department of Culture of the city of Astana, Mr. Zhanabay Meyrmankulov, with the Director of the Department of International Relations and the European Union of the Ministry of Culture of Greece, Mr. Georgios Kalamantzis.During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for further strengthening Kazakhstan–Greece cooperation in the field of culture, as well as the implementation of joint initiatives aimed at promoting humanitarian cooperation between the two countries.Special attention was given to plans for organizing cultural exchanges between the cities of Astana and Athens, including folk and classical concerts in the near future.The parties also discussed the renewal of bilateral documents aimed at enhancing cooperation in the fields of culture and the arts.  Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstanto the Hellenic RepublicSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-athens/press/news/details/964280?lang=kk

The Hague, March 26, 2025 - The current state and future directions of bilateral economic cooperation, as well as the implementation of agreements reached following the visit of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands to Kazakhstan in 2024, were the main topics of discussion during the meeting between the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Netherlands, Kairat Abdrakhmanov, and the Director-General for Foreign Economic Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Michiel Sweers.During the conversation, the parties discussed the dynamics of interaction in such priority areas as sustainable and renewable energy, water resource management, agriculture, logistics, ecology, and healthcare. Special attention was given to the further development of the critical raw materials sector in Kazakhstan, its potential for ensuring sustainable supplies to the European Union, and Dutch companies were invited to actively participate in relevant projects.In light of the process of strengthening transport connectivity between Central Asia and Europe, parties identified infrastructure development, including logistics and port capacities in western Kazakhstan, as one of the priorities. It was noted that major Dutch companies have already accumulated significant experience in participating in such projects, and the importance of deepening cooperation is driven by Kazakhstan's increasing strategic role as a transport hub in the Eurasian space.The parties agreed to work on continuous improvement of the investment climate for business circles, ensuring the rule of law, and eliminating corruption risks in project implementation. These goals are supported by the large-scale socio-political and socio-economic reforms initiated by the President of Kazakhstan. To take a systematic approach to developing trade, economic, and investment cooperation, the Kazakh side proposes creating joint commissions with the Netherlands at the intergovernmental or interdepartmental level, as well as organizing major forums with the participation of business communities and officials from both countries.The Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for supporting Kazakhstan's initiative to establish a UN Regional Hub for Sustainable Development Goals in Almaty for Central Asia and Afghanistan. He emphasized that the unanimous adoption of the corresponding resolution by the UN General Assembly has been a practical contribution of the international community to ensuring regional stability and creating favourable conditions for businesses.The parties reviewed the preparation process for a series of upcoming mutual visits by representatives of state authorities and the business community of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which will contribute to expanding economic partnership between the two countries. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-hague/press/news/details/964259?lang=kk

Tallinn, March 26, 2025 – A festive concert dedicated to the celebration of Nauryz, one of the main holidays of the Kazakh people, took place at the Tallinn Philharmonic Concert Hall. The event was organized with the support of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Estonia and the Akimat of the Kyzylorda Region.The evening began with a unique opportunity for the Estonian audience to get acquainted with the traditional Kazakh board game Togyz Kumalak. This intellectual game, a cultural treasure of Kazakhstan and included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage, sparked genuine interest among attendees, who included representatives of diplomatic missions, cultural and business circles, as well as the Kazakh diaspora in Estonia. Guests not only quickly mastered the rules but also participated in a friendly tournament, appreciating the elegance and strategic depth of the game.The concert program of the evening, presented by artists from the Kyzylorda Regional Philharmonic, featured masterpieces of folk art and works by contemporary Kazakh composers. The performers offered guests a musical journey reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan, which was met with unwavering admiration and a warm reception. Prolonged and emotional applause underscored the audience's heartfelt gratitude to the Kazakh artists.This evening was not only a celebration of music and culture but also an important contribution to strengthening friendly ties between the peoples of Kazakhstan and Estonia. Nauryz, celebrated by millions of people worldwide, serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and friendship between nations.The event in Estonia’s capital once again demonstrated Kazakhstan's commitment to fostering dialogue between nations and promoting its unique traditions on the global arena.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tallin/press/news/details/964228?lang=kk

The following issues are considered:1. "On the ongoing work to reduce the number of serious bodily injuries, including through increased video surveillance coverage of places of mass residence of citizens."2: "On the prevention of crimes committed by previously committed persons in terms of involving interested employment services for previously convicted persons."3. "On the effectiveness of using the budget for social projects."4. "Prevention of corruption risks in the construction sector".Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/964221?lang=kk

More than 400 eighth graders from all over Kostanay region gathered in Kostanay for the regional stage of the IQanat Republican Olympiad. This round will be crucial: according to its results, 1,000 of the best students from all over the country will qualify for the finals.The special feature of the Olympiad is its social orientation: 70% of the participants are children from vulnerable families. Finalists get a chance to study for free: some at the prestigious IQanat boarding school in Borovoye, the rest as part of a three—year support program. This is not only preparation for the UNT and international exams, but also the study of English, IT, soft skills and entrepreneurship.— Up to 90% of students who have completed the foundation's programs apply for grants at leading universities in Kazakhstan and abroad. Today, our graduates study in 15 countries around the world," said Gulnara Bersagurova, Regional Coordinator of the IQanat Foundation.The Olympiad includes tests of logic, critical and spatial thinking, mathematical literacy and English. Students also choose one of six subjects: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geography or the history of Kazakhstan.This year's innovation is the peer—to-peer project: eighth graders are helped by high school students from the IQanat system, who have become mentors and tutors for them.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/964205?lang=kk

In honor of World Theater Day on March 27, the department for the visually impaired at the Saken Seifullin Central Library hosted an educational hour titled "Theater – The Mirror of Life."During the event, librarian Aynash Raykulkyzy provided readers with insightful information about the history of theater, its significance in society, and the development of Kazakh theater. Interesting facts were also shared about theater’s contribution to culture and its impact on human perception.A special book exhibition dedicated to theatrical art was organized for the visitors. The exhibition featured the finest works of world and Kazakh dramaturgy, valuable studies on theater history, as well as books about prominent directors and actors. Exploring the exhibition, visitors gained new knowledge about the world of theater and immersed themselves in the magic of the stage.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/zhetysu-archive/press/news/details/964201?lang=kk

Young athletes from Kostanay worthily represented the region at the VII International Boxing Tournament in memory of the Honored Master of Sports of Russia Sofia Ochigava, which was held in Moscow. More than 300 boxers from different countries between the ages of 13 and 40 took part in the competition.Ramina Makhanova became the champion in the weight category up to 54 kg. The athlete was trained by coaches Ruslan and Temirlan Chemurzieva.The bronze medals were won:• Anelya Nauruzbayeva (46 kg weight category, coach – Nurkhan Zhalgasbekov);• Madina Nurmanova (66 kg, coach – Temirlan Chemurziev).All the athletes are pupils of the children's and youth sports school in Kostanay.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/964200?lang=kk