On April 21, 2026, a meeting with representatives of the Department of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Civil Service Affairs in the Kostanay region and the branch of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the Kostanay region was held at the office of the Akimat of the Kostanay region within the framework of universal legal education.During the meeting, the staff of the akimat apparatus were explained the main legislative changes concerning the competitive selection process for entering civil service and the Academy of Public Administration.Representatives of the Department of the Civil Service Affairs Agency elaborated in detail on the innovations in the procedure for conducting competitions, candidate assessment criteria, selection stages, and document requirements. Special attention was paid to the digitalization of competitive procedures and ensuring selection transparency. Staff from the branch of the Academy of Public Administration spoke about the updated admission conditions for master's and doctoral programs, new educational programs, and requirements for applicants from among civil servants.It was noted that the work on legal awareness among employees will continue in an open dialogue format, inviting practitioners and experts to analyze specific cases and law enforcement practices.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1206590?lang=kk

The event invited individuals awarded the "Best Public Servant" badge, successful young public servants, members of the regional personnel reserve working in relevant fields, a representative of the Department for Civil Service Affairs in the Kostanay Region, as well as the ethics commissioner of the Akimat (administration) of the Kostanay Region.The event was organized to raise schoolchildren's awareness about the work of public authorities and to form a more complete understanding of public service.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1206170?lang=kk

A meeting of the regional akimat on the topic of developing mass sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle was held under the chairmanship of the head of the region, Kumar Aksakalov.The Head of State pays special attention to promoting a healthy lifestyle and developing mass sports. Currently, the largest share of citizens engaged in mass sports is among youth and the adult population.In the region, 69.5 thousand children and adolescents are engaged in 18 sports. The number of new sports facilities in the region is increasing annually. Over the past 3 years, more than 30 facilities have been built: 16 physical culture and health complexes, 8 sports halls, 6 indoor hockey rinks, 2 stadiums, an equestrian arena, and a swimming pool.In the regional center, construction of a multifunctional stadium is underway in the triathlon park area. An agreement has been reached to build a physical culture and health complex for people with disabilities with the support of the "Qazaqstan Halqyna" foundation (Kostanay city). Construction of a Sports Palace will begin in the "Astana" microdistrict. An indoor hockey rink will be built in Arkalyk city, and the "Samruk-Kazyna" foundation will erect a multifunctional physical culture and health complex. Furthermore, over the past 3 years, more than 80 sports grounds have been built in the region, allowing more and more residents to engage in sports near their homes."Sports infrastructure is not just facilities; it is an investment in the health of society and the future of our region," noted the regional akim.Parallel to the development and promotion of mass sports, systematic work must be established to train elite athletes. It is important to identify talents from which professionals and future stars of national teams, ready to compete on the world stage, can be nurtured.Today, 121 athletes from the region are part of the national teams of the Republic in winter sports. Our athletes worthily represent the region on the international stage and confirm their high level of preparation. Five athletes from the region participated in the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Additionally, our fellow countrymen have achieved high results at Asian championships in boxing, cycling, and para powerlifting."As the President noted: 'The achievements of every citizen are the achievements of all Kazakhstan, the honor of every athlete is the authority of our entire people.' If we want to achieve high results and successful performances by our athletes at the level of elite sports, a comprehensive approach and systematic work are necessary, starting from the level of districts and cities. We will be able to enhance the authority of our region and state in the future only by improving the level of sports training in every region," noted the head of the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1205660?lang=kk

The Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay Region, Kumar Aksakalov, met with athletes who are honorably representing our region and country at international competitions.The beginning of 2026 has been fruitful for Kostanay sports. Our athletes are demonstrating a high level of preparation and competitiveness on the international stage, achieving commendable results. Specifically, 5 of our athletes participated in the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Our fellow countrymen secured victories at Asian and European championships in boxing, judo, cycling, and para powerlifting.Systematic work is being carried out in the region to develop human resources and the sports reserve. In the first quarter of 2026, 1 Honored Master of Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 9 Masters of Sports of International Class, 29 Masters of Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as 3 Honored Coaches of the Republic of Kazakhstan were trained.The development of physical culture and sports remains one of the priorities of state policy. The region has 64 sports and recreation complexes, 16 of which were built in the last 3 years.All the work done will enable our athletes to reach new heights and honorably represent the country at major international competitions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1205644?lang=kk

SkopjeIn implementation of the instructions given by the Head of State following the negotiations between the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the President of the Republic of North Macedonia, held in May 2025 on the sidelines of the Astana International Forum 2025, the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Arman Shakkaliyev, visited Skopje on a working visit aimed at developing trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.During the visit, the President of the Republic of North Macedonia, G. Siljanovska-Davkova, received the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, A. Shakkaliyev. During the meeting, the President was briefed on the development of trade and economic cooperation and prospects for its expansion.G. Siljanovska-Davkova, warmly recalling her visit to Astana in May 2025, conveyed best wishes to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan, also noting the recent meeting of the heads of state on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum and emphasizing the importance of further developing international dialogue.An important item on the visit's agenda was the negotiations between Minister A. Shakkaliyev and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Timčo Mucunski. The parties substantively discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral trade. Particular attention was paid to creating conditions for sustainable growth in trade turnover.Following the business forum, which gathered over 100 Macedonian and a number of Kazakh companies (including "QazTrade", "KazakhInvest"), an Agreement on the establishment of a Business Council between the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan and the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia was signed, as well as a Memorandum of Cooperation between JSC "QazTrade Trade Policy Development Center" and the Agency of North Macedonia for Investment Attraction and Export Promotion, aimed at implementing joint business projects.Furthermore, following the business forum, commercial documents worth approximately 500 million tenge were signed.During the visit to Skopje, Minister A. Shakkaliyev visited the "Bunardzik" complex (Technological Industrial Development Zone TIDZ), a specialized center for environmentally friendly production and advanced technologies.Continuing the visit, meetings were held in Istanbul with representatives of major Turkish businesses, including Orzax Group (production of dietary supplements), Roz Metal (metallurgy, aluminum and copper products) and Safi Holding (food industry, including sugar production). During the negotiations, the companies expressed interest in expanding their presence in Kazakhstan, implementing investment projects, localizing production, and developing industrial cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1205121?lang=kk

Cities and districts of the Kostanay region actively supported the environmental campaign "Taza Aula" (Clean Village), implemented within the framework of the national program "Taza Kazakhstan" (Clean Kazakhstan).The initiative, aimed at improving the sanitary condition of settlements and fostering environmental culture, received a broad response from the population. Employees of state institutions, enterprises, representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, as well as concerned residents took part in the events.The main goal of the campaign was to tidy up yard areas and plots adjacent to residential buildings, as well as to strengthen citizens' responsible attitude towards the environment. Such events not only contribute to improving the appearance of settlements but also help residents develop sustainable habits for maintaining cleanliness.During the campaign, participants carried out comprehensive sanitary cleaning work: household waste and dry leaves were collected, public areas were cleaned, and adjacent plots were put in order. Special attention was paid to the improvement of courtyards, where work was carried out to restore order and improve the general condition of the territories.As a result of the activities, many courtyards have become noticeably cleaner, cozier, and more well-maintained. The "Taza Aula" campaign once again demonstrated a high level of civic responsibility and the readiness of residents of the Kostanay region to jointly address issues of improvement and environmental protection.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1204938?lang=kk

Akim of the Kostanay Region, Kumar Aksakalov, on behalf of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, presented state awards to citizens who have made significant contributions to the public life of the country. This is a high recognition of the work of our fellow countrymen and a clear testament to their responsibility to society.In accordance with Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan No. 1221 dated April 7, 2026, the following individuals have been awarded state awards: Order of "Parasat"Zhutayev Makhabbat SagynbayevichChairman of the Standing Commission of the Kostanay Regional Maslikhat on Social Sphere Issues and Interaction with Non-Governmental Organizations Medal "For Meritorious Labor"Gadzhibalayev Rafail Sadaddin oglyChairman of the Public Association "Azerbaijani Community of Kostanay Region 'BIRLIK'";Kalkayev Damir YeltayevichHead of the Communal State Enterprise "Regional Center for Amateur Folk Art and Film and Video Fund";Kokishev Saken BalgabayevichDeputy Head of the State Institution "Public Development Department of the Akimat of Kostanay Region";Rakpanova Diana BolatovnaHead of the Youth Affairs Committee of the Non-Commercial Joint-Stock Company "Kostanay Regional University named after Akhmet Baitursynuly";Ramazanova Natalya SergeyevnaHead of the Communal State Institution "Public Accord";Sergazinova Alexandra KabdullayevnaEditor-in-Chief of the Limited Liability Partnership "Information Agency 'TobolInfo'";Shulenov Mazhit MaksutovichDeputy Akim of the city of Kostanay.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1203344?lang=kk

The Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in line with the Prime Minister's instructions, has intensified efforts to reduce unproductive intermediation in the country's markets. The focus is on building transparent supply chains and eliminating factors contributing to unjustified price increases.On April 16, the Chairman of the Trade Committee of the MTI RK, Yernur Zhautikbayev, held an on-site cluster meeting in the city of Turkestan with the participation of market owners and administrations of trade facilities from the Turkestan, Kyzylorda, Zhambyl regions, and the city of Shymkent.As part of improving the Rules of Internal Trade at the legislative level, a distinction has been made between retail sellers and wholesale suppliers. This has streamlined the composition of participants in the procurement process and limited the involvement of unproductive intermediaries — entities that do not create added value in the supply chain but affect the final price for the consumer.The Chairman of the Committee drew special attention of market owners to the need for strict compliance with legal requirements. A key element is the mandatory conduct of activities using information systems, which must record all contracts with sellers, rental payments, and trading conditions. It is precisely the lack of transparent digital accounting that creates preconditions for distorting real turnovers, informal settlements, and the emergence of unproductive intermediaries. In this regard, control measures are primarily focused on entities ignoring work in information systems.According to Yernur Zhautikbayev, comprehensive work has already begun in markets across the country, primarily in the wholesale segment. The work involves state revenue authorities, internal affairs bodies, the antimonopoly authority, and local executive bodies, with coordination by the MTI. The application of tax administration tools is being strengthened, including the timing of trading activities, which allows for an objective comparison of actual turnovers with declared ones and the identification of signs of shadow turnover.Following control measures, territorial departments of trade and consumer rights protection issue orders to eliminate violations. Regarding non-compliance with requirements for mandatory use of information systems, administrative liability in the form of fines is provided, as well as the application of stricter response measures as established by law, up to consideration of the issue in court."The market is not a territory for opaque schemes. Every participant must operate within the legal framework. Any trading activity must be transparent and digitalized. Working outside of information systems is a direct risk zone for the shadow economy and price distortions. If market participants are not ready to work according to established rules, the state will consistently apply the entire range of response tools provided for by legislation," emphasized Yernur Zhautikbayev.In each region, regional commissions chaired by deputy akims (governors) of the regions are functioning, responsible for analyzing supply chains. At their platforms, specific supply schemes are considered, unproductive intermediaries are identified, and decisions are made to exclude them. At the same time, it was noted that in a number of regions, the work of the commissions is formal and does not yield the desired effect.Since the beginning of the year, approximately 316 meetings of regional commissions have been held across the country, resulting in the exclusion of 73 intermediary links from trade chains. The Trade Committee instructed the akimats (local administrations) to ensure the practical effectiveness of this work and strengthen control over the formation of transparent and efficient supply chains.The implementation of these measures is aimed at reducing the share of the shadow economy, forming a fair competitive environment, and ensuring fair prices for the population.Concluding his working visit to the Turkestan region, Yernur Zhautikbayev visited the stabilization fund, social stores, and a number of markets in the region. Similar on-site cluster meetings will be conducted systematically across the country's regions, covering specific territorial groups for targeted consideration of trade infrastructure and pricing issues.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1203072?lang=kk

The year began with good news in the Uzynkol district of the Kostanay region. A new 18-apartment residential building has been commissioned in the district center, and the work to increase housing affordability for the population continues on a systematic basis.Providing citizens with housing is one of the priority areas of state policy. Currently, 267 people are on the waiting list for housing in the district. Most of them are low-income and large families.In accordance with the instruction of the Head of State, special attention is paid to providing housing for socially vulnerable categories of citizens - primarily large and low-income families, as well as persons with disabilities.This residential building was constructed by order of the District Department of Architecture, Urban Planning, and Construction of the Uzynkol District. The commissioning of the facility became a significant event for the villagers. To date, nine families have already moved into the new apartments and are enjoying all the benefits of modern housing. It is expected that the remaining apartments will also find their owners in the near future.Overall, the construction of the 18-apartment building is a clear result of the implementation of state programs. Local executive bodies are consistently implementing measures aimed at improving the quality of life of the population and enhancing the social situation.Work in the field of housing construction will continue.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201810?lang=kk

The Department of Trade and Consumer Rights Protection of the East Kazakhstan Region continues its work to stabilize prices for socially significant food products (SSFP). During the analysis of electronic invoices (E-invoices) within the activities of the Regional Commission, a scheme of artificial price inflation was identified.It was established that one of the region's individual entrepreneurs created an artificial intermediary link. The entrepreneur purchased goods (buckwheat, sugar, salt) and resold them to a limited liability partnership (LLP) controlled by him.As a result of such "reselling to oneself," the final cost of socially significant goods for the population increased unjustifiably. In particular, a trade markup of 127% was set on buckwheat; with a purchase price of 241 tenge, the product was sold for 550 tenge. For sugar, the trade markup reached 45%, and for table salt, 41%.It should be recalled that, according to the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the maximum trade markup on socially significant goods should not exceed 15%. Administrative proceedings have been initiated against the violator under Article 204-4 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A fine has been imposed. The main result of the work is that the unproductive intermediary has been completely removed from the supply chain, which will ensure more fair pricing.The work to identify such schemes continues and is under the constant supervision of the Department. Since the beginning of the year, the Department has analyzed electronic invoices from more than 70 trade facilities in the region and removed over ten unproductive intermediaries from the supply chain.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1202120?lang=kk

On April 15 of this year, the Ministry of Trade and Integration, together with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Union of Livestock Breeders of Kazakhstan, signed a memorandum of cooperation aimed at implementing measures to stabilize beef prices.The basis of the memorandum is the mutual interest of the parties in ensuring price stability in the domestic market, preventing social tension, and increasing the social responsibility of businesses.Under the signed memorandum, the Union of Livestock Breeders of Kazakhstan has undertaken the following obligations:- to ensure the priority saturation of the domestic market with meat products and prevent shortages;- to organize the supply of at least 15% of the beef export volume to the domestic market through retail chains;to coordinate the activities of accredited exporters regarding meat supplies to the domestic market.- to ensure the supply of beef to the domestic market at a fixed producer selling price of 3,275 tenge per kg excluding value-added tax. It should be noted that the specified price is the producer's selling price and does not reflect the final cost of the product at retail. The formation of the retail price is additionally influenced by associated costs, including transportation, storage, loading and unloading operations, as well as other operational expenses incurred on the way from the producer to the point of sale.In turn, the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, within the framework of the memorandum, considers industry proposals when forming state policy, and also, subject to the full supply of the domestic market, the possibility of increasing export quotas in accordance with the established procedure.The Ministry of Trade and Integration monitors prices in the domestic market, coordinates interaction with retail chains, facilitates the conclusion of direct supply contracts between producers and retail outlets, and controls compliance with the permissible level of trade markup.The memorandum aims to form a transparent and predictable market, reduce price fluctuations, and provide the population with affordable meat products.The implementation of the reached agreements will maintain a balance between developing the industry's export potential and ensuring the supply of the domestic market.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1202499?lang=kk

Halyk Bank's Board Chairperson Umut Shayakhmetova, who arrived on a working visit to the Kostanay Region, held a meeting with the region's business community and partners.The meeting discussed issues of strengthening partnerships with entrepreneurs, supporting business expansion into new markets, and developing modern financial instruments that contribute to the region's sustainable economic development.During the meeting, the Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay Region reported that in the first quarter of this year alone, the volume of credit investments by second-tier banks in the region's economic sectors amounted to 119.1 billion tenge.The largest share of loans issued went to the trade sector — 16.1% of the total volume, to industry — 15.9%, and to the construction sector — 2.7%. Loans totaling 30.4 billion tenge were issued for the development of small business entities, which is 15.8% more compared to the same period last year."The deposit base of the region's banks grew by 20.7% over the year and reached 1.2 trillion tenge. At the same time, 80% of the deposit market consists of household deposits. The level of deposit dollarization was 8.3%, having decreased by 3.6 percentage points compared to the same period in 2025. This indicates growing confidence in the tenge," noted the head of the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1202519?lang=kk

On April 15, 2026, a training seminar was conducted by the Ethics Commissioner of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan in collaboration with the Legal Department.During the event, civil servants were briefed on the requirements of legislation and norms of official conduct related to compliance with anti-corruption restrictions and prohibitions.Particular attention was paid to the proper use of state property. The obligation of civil servants to ensure the safety of entrusted resources, to use official equipment, vehicles, and other material assets exclusively for official purposes was highlighted, as well as the inadmissibility of using administrative resources for personal gain.A separate section addressed issues of conflict of interest, its potential precursors, and prevention mechanisms. In this regard, emphasis was placed on the need for timely notification of a conflict of interest arising and taking measures to resolve it.Within the seminar, the requirements of the Ethical Code for Civil Servants were additionally explained, including adherence to business etiquette and norms of business communication, principles of integrity, and zero tolerance for corruption offenses. Furthermore, civil servants were reminded of the need to comply with legally established restrictions and prohibitions, including the ban on smoking, visiting gambling establishments, adherence to the principle of religious neutrality, and requirements for labor discipline and work schedule.Following the event, the importance of fostering a strong anti-corruption culture, adhering to norms of official ethics, and strictly following the requirements of civil service legislation was emphasized. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1201596?lang=kk

As part of the working visit of the Chairman of the Presidium of the NCE "Atameken" Kanat Sharlapayev to the region, prospects for the development of local entrepreneurship were discussed and leading enterprises were visited. Dialogue with business, a meeting with the regional council, a visit to the "One Village - One Product" exhibition - all these events helped to form the main thesis - the Kostanay region confirms its status as one of the key industrial and agricultural regions of Kazakhstan.The region's Akim, Kumar Aksakalov, noted that the development of large-scale production and the creation of the most favorable environment for small and medium-sized businesses are priority areas for the region."Today, the Kostanay region is one of the steadily developing regions of the country. In terms of manufacturing output, the region ranks fourth in the republic. Our region is a center of mechanical engineering: 25% of the country's total production comes from the Kostanay region. The region also holds leading positions in the processing of agricultural products, export, and food production. It is important that each investment project is accompanied by the creation of sustainable jobs and the development of local infrastructure. Interaction with the National Chamber 'Atameken' allows for prompt feedback from entrepreneurs," noted the head of the region.In turn, Kanat Sharlapayev outlined the key priorities of the National Chamber for the current year. According to him, the main focus will be on strengthening the protection of entrepreneurs' rights and unlocking the potential of domestic business.The Chairman of the Chamber also familiarized himself with a number of leading enterprises in the region and major investment projects.During the meeting with business representatives, issues concerning construction, the agricultural sector, support for domestic producers, and the development of social entrepreneurship were raised.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201335?lang=kk

A meeting dedicated to preparations for the 2026 fire-danger period was held at the regional akimat under the chairmanship of the head of the region, Kumar Aksakalov. The official fire-danger season began on April 6 and will last until October.The staffing of the forest guard has currently been strengthened. If three years ago it consisted of 825 people, today it has increased to 1,242 people, or by 51%. The provision of forestry institutions with equipment has increased from 76% to 90%. Over three years, 51 fire trucks, 86 tractors, 36 small forest fire complexes, and 65 vehicles have been purchased. The number of 24-hour surveillance cameras is increasing annually. The average area of forest fires has decreased from 11.4 to 4.6 hectares, a reduction of 2.5 times."A new fire-danger period is now beginning. Traditionally, the number of forest visitors increases from May. It should be remembered that administrative liability is provided for non-compliance with fire safety rules in forest and steppe areas. Reducing risks and preventing the occurrence of fires is our common task. It is important that each of us always observes fire safety rules: at home, on the street, and in the forest," noted the head of the region.During the meeting, reports on preparations for the fire-danger period were presented by the acting head of the Department of Emergency Situations of the Kostanay Region, Nazarali Selimov; the head of the Department of Natural Resources and Regulation of Natural Resource Use of the regional akimat, Gulzhanat Keribayeva; the akim of the Auliekol district, Zhansultan Taukenov; and the akim of the Kamysty district, Yerlan Zhaulybayev.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201344?lang=kk

Behind every state institution are people — those who, every day, without unnecessary noise or publicity, perform their work honestly and conscientiously. It is precisely such specialists who shape the true face of public service. One of them is Ekaterina Mikhailovna Parshina — the chief specialist of the Department of the Committee for Technical Regulation and Metrology of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the North Kazakhstan Region, a state inspector for state control and supervision.Ekaterina Mikhailovna has been working in the public service system for over 17 years. During this time, she has established herself as a professional for whom responsibility, integrity, and quality of work are not just job requirements, but a personal standard. Colleagues note her attention to detail, diligence, and ability to find solutions even in complex work situations.The work of a state inspector requires not only knowledge of legislation and practical experience but also a high degree of personal responsibility. Ekaterina Mikhailovna has repeatedly participated in conducting state control in various regions of the country and has taken part in improving regulatory rules in the field of determining the country of origin of goods and issuing certificates. Her professional knowledge is also in demand during prestigious quality competitions such as "Altyn Sapa" and "Best Product of Kazakhstan," where she participates in the work of the commissions.However, behind the strict formulations of the position and professional achievements stands a person for whom simple life values are important.Outside of work, Ekaterina Mikhailovna leads an active and modest lifestyle. She loves movement and sports — walks, hiking, and fitness classes. In her free time, she prefers books, especially historical works and novels that allow for a deeper understanding of people's destinies and eras.A special place in her life is occupied by volunteer work. She does not remain indifferent to those in need: she participates in supporting homeless animals and tries to help elderly people, for whom attention and human participation are especially important.But the main support and source of vitality for Ekaterina Mikhailovna remains her family. She holds a special warmth for her parents — respects them, cares for them, and considers it her duty to support and protect her closest people.The stories of such people rarely become the center of attention because they do not seek publicity. But it is precisely thanks to their daily, honest, and responsible work that society's trust in public service is strengthened. And it is precisely such specialists who confirm that public service is, first and foremost, service to the people.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1201213?lang=kk

For the first time in the Kostanay region, an intellectual quiz "IT brAInstorm" was organized, aimed at popularizing information technology and artificial intelligence among schoolchildren.The event became an important part of the systematic work to develop digital skills among youth and increase interest in modern IT professions.Teams from 7 comprehensive schools in the city of Kostanay took part in the quiz. Participants competed in several stages, testing their knowledge in the field of information technology and artificial intelligence, solving logical problems, and also demonstrating skills in quick thinking and teamwork.The "IT brAInstorm" format differed from traditional quizzes in that it allowed participants not only to test their knowledge but also to develop analytical thinking, creativity, and the ability to work effectively in a team. During the quiz, schoolchildren learned about modern technological trends and expanded their understanding of the opportunities in the IT sphere.Before the quiz began, a tour was organized for the participants at the Qostanai Hub. During the tour, the schoolchildren familiarized themselves with the center's infrastructure and received detailed information about educational programs, startup projects, and opportunities for technological development. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1199434?lang=kk

In the Nauryzym district of the Kostanay region, the "We Are Volunteers" campaign was held, during which young people contributed to the improvement of the area. Active volunteers of the district gathered together and carried out work to clean the monument dedicated to veterans of the Great Patriotic War, as well as the adjacent territory.During the campaign, participants cleared the area of litter, tidied up the surrounding space, and beautified the memorial site. Such events are aimed at fostering a sense of patriotism and respect for historical heritage among the younger generation.It is worth noting that the volunteer movement in the country is actively developing. Social and environmental initiatives contribute to increasing the civic engagement of youth and involving them in socially significant activities.According to the organizers, the "We Are Volunteers" campaign is not a one-time event. In the future, such initiatives will continue, and the youth of the district will remain actively involved in the life of society.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1198917?lang=kk

At the initiative of the Republic of Kazakhstan, an important historical decision was made at the international level: the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development.A number of projects are being implemented in the region to develop the volunteer movement and support environmental initiatives. One of the main innovations in this direction is the organization of the "Best Environmental Strategies" competition among volunteers. The winner of the competition is awarded a grant of 1 million tenge. The award ceremony will take place at a solemn event summarizing the year's results. Competition participants develop their initiatives in advance and go through stages of selection and project defense.The region currently has about 3 thousand volunteers, of which 2,456 are youth. To support and develop the volunteer movement, 11 projects with a total value of 19,245 thousand tenge are being implemented in the region in 2026. One of them is the "Promotion of Volunteering in the Kostanay Region" project worth 5 million tenge, implemented by the Regional Youth Resource Center.Overall, volunteer activity in the country has shown steady growth in recent years. Annually, more than 60 thousand people are attracted to the National Volunteer Network, and more than 200 people have become laureates of the international "Volunteer of the Year" award.At the regional level, an increase in volunteer activity is also observed. According to the results of 2025, 2,211 events were organized in the region, with the participation of more than 22 thousand volunteers. The total volume of volunteer activity exceeded 4,800 hours. Furthermore, the regional front office is becoming an effective platform providing opportunities for the formation of proactive youth and leaders.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1197131?lang=kk

Kazakhstan has approved regulations for equipping shelters for the population. The new standard covers basements, underground parking lots, and other subterranean spaces, reports the press service of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan.In Kazakhstan, a new standard for shelters in case of emergencies will come into effect from January 1, 2026. This refers to ST RK 4016-2025, which establishes requirements for adapting basements, parking lots, and other underground premises for population protection. It was developed by KazStandard as part of the National Standardization Plan for 2025 at the request of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.The Committee for Technical Regulation and Metrology of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan noted that the document is aimed at improving the level of safety and preparedness for emergencies.— In global practice, subterranean premises, including basements, ground floors, underground passages, and subways, are widely used for population protection. In Kazakhstan, such spaces can also be adapted for civil defense protective structures, — the department reported.The new standard eliminates a regulatory gap and introduces uniform requirements for shelters. It defines the procedure for inspecting buildings and adapting them for population protection during emergencies of a natural, man-made, and military nature.The document establishes requirements for structures and room layouts, as well as for life support systems. These include ventilation, water supply, electricity supply, sanitary conditions, and communications. The procedure for assessing the technical condition of buildings is also established, including checking load-bearing structures and engineering systems.Measures for reinforcing structures and retrofitting premises, if necessary, are separately provided for. The standard provides examples of typical solutions and a table for assessing shelter suitability.The project has been coordinated with the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the Committee for Atomic and Energy Supervision and Control of the Ministry of Energy, the Regional Department for Emergency Situations and the Department for Mobilization Preparation and Civil Protection, technical committees in the field of industrial safety and construction, the NCE "Atameken", the Atomic Energy Agency, the National Nuclear Center, the Institute of Atomic Energy, and other organizations.Comments and proposals received during the coordination process concerned considering geographical, climatic, and seismic features when developing technical solutions, developing algorithms for protection against unmanned aerial vehicles, including appendices with examples of retrofitting schemes and a table for assessing premises suitability, reinforcing shelter walls and openings, as well as implementing an automated public access system to shelters. All proposals were taken into account.The adoption of the standard will allow for the formation of a unified approach to the use of subterranean premises and will increase the level of population protection in emergency situations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/1195458?lang=kk