New Priorities for Higher Education Discussed at Strategic Partners Council MeetingToday, on March 17, the IV meeting of the Council of Strategic Partners of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held with the participation of representatives of government agencies, international organizations and higher education institutions.The meeting was attended by Vice-Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Gulzat Kobenova, members of the Executive Council of Strategic Partners, heads of foreign partner universities, as well as representatives of branches of foreign universities operating in Kazakhstan.During the meeting, an overview of key decisions and initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education was presented. The Vice Minister noted that the Ministry is consistently carrying out a systemic transformation of higher education aimed at increasing its flexibility, sustainability, and international competitiveness. Among the priority areas is the development of Kazakhstan as an international education hub, including the expansion of partnerships and foreign university branches, the introduction of new promotion tools, strengthening the financial sustainability of universities, and the development of an updated funding model for the sector.As part of the agenda, key issues related to the development of the higher education system and international cooperation were also discussed. In particular, in the presentation «Shaping the Future of Admissions in Kazakhstan», Terran Brown, Executive Director of the NAEP program at ETS, noted that the Admissions Insight Test (AIT) under development is aimed at creating a modern, internationally comparable admissions system. This system focuses not only on assessing knowledge but also on evaluating key 21st-century competencies, including critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.In turn, Nurseit Baizhanov, First Deputy Director of the National Testing Center, emphasized the phased implementation of the project in 2026–2028, including the development, piloting, and subsequent rollout of the new model, as well as its role as a strategic tool for transforming the entire education system.A separate agenda item focused on the work plans of the Council of Strategic Partners, presented by Head of the Secretariat Olgun Cicek.In addition, special attention was given to positioning Kazakhstan as a strategic hub for hosting the CIMEA regional office in Central Asia. CIMEA Director General Luca Lantero highlighted the country’s strong potential as a regional education hub, noting the growing number of international students and the active development of cooperation with foreign universities.The meeting served as an important platform for exchanging experience, developing joint initiatives, and further strengthening international partnerships.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/sci/press/news/details/1183442?lang=kk

At the regional stage of the republican Kazakh language olympiad “Zharkyn Bolashak,” students of our schools won prize places.  “Young Writer” competition, Kazakh group  2nd place – Moldir Mukhit,KSU “Semiyar Secondary School”  “Songbirds” competition, Kazakh group  3rd place – Aisana Asylkhan,KSU “M-Vladimirovka Secondary School”We sincerely congratulate the prize winners!  We wish you continued success, new achievements, and creative accomplishments in the future!  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/beskaragay-roo/press/news/details/1183428?lang=kk

On March 17, 2026, a ceremonial event marking the launch of a direct international flight operated by the low-cost airline FlyArystan on the route Almaty – Samarkand – Almaty was held at Samarkand International Airport. The event was attended by the Deputy Hokim of the Samarkand Region Rustam Kobilov, the Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Samarkand Talgat Sharipov, as well as the management of FlyArystan and Air Marakanda (the airport management operator), official guests, partners, and representatives of the media.In his welcoming remarks, the Consul General emphasized the importance of launching the direct flight between the major cities of the two countries, noting that it will contribute to the active development of trade, economic and investment cooperation, increase tourism, scientific, academic and educational exchanges, and further strengthen cultural and humanitarian ties between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.The first passenger to check in for the Samarkand – Almaty flight received a certificate for a free airline ticket from FlyArystan, while Air Marakanda provided complimentary access to the CIP lounge.Direct flights on the Almaty – Samarkand – Almaty route will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Airline tickets can be purchased through the FlyArystan mobile application and on the official website flyarystan.com.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-samarkand/press/news/details/1183399?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1183402?lang=kk

At the regional stage of the republican competition “Ilyas Zhansugurov Readings,” dedicated to promoting the творчество of the great poet Ilyas Zhansugurov, four students from Beskaragay District participated and won prize places. Winners: Nomination “Write, Write, O Pen!” – Young Poets 3rd place – Amina Bakenova,KSU “Bashkol Basic School” Nomination “Master of Beautiful Word” – Analysis of the artistic structure of a literary work3rd place – Gulvira Sailaugazy,KSU “Secondary School No. 1” We sincerely congratulate the winners on their regional achievements!We wish young talents creative success and new accomplishments in education and the arts!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/beskaragay-roo/press/news/details/1183422?lang=kk

 During the meeting, the following issues were discussed:Preventing the restriction of entrepreneurs’ rights during public procurement procedures. Issues related to заключение contracts for disinfection, disinsection, and deratization services in compliance with legal requirements;Providing all schools in the district with digital resources;Budget utilization,as well as other current issues.In addition, the Head of the Department of Education instructed that during cold weather, close communication with parents and students should be maintained, and safety measures should always be kept under strict control.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/beskaragay-roo/press/news/details/1183366?lang=kk

 uring the meeting, the following issues were discussed:Assessment of teachers’ knowledge (testing) — Kuralai Serikzhanovna Nurgozhanova, Head of the Methodological Office of the Department of Education;Issues of воспитательной work (student upbringing and guidance) — Zhibek Kairatovna Masalimova, Chief Specialist of the Department of Education;Citizens’ appeals and work with the “E-Өтініш” system. In addition, the Head of the Department of Education instructed that during weekends and extracurricular time, close communication with parents and students should be maintained, and safety measures should always be kept under strict control.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/beskaragay-roo/press/news/details/1183383?lang=kk

Tokyo, March 17, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Japan, Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev, held a meeting with the Minister of the Environment of Japan, Hirotaka Ishihara, during which he briefed the Japanese side on the results of the national referendum on the adoption of the country’s new Constitution.The parties also discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation in the field of sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges, with particular focus on joint efforts to combat climate change and promote the introduction of green technologies.The Ambassador informed the Japanese minister about Kazakhstan’s initiative to establish an international water organization under the auspices of the United Nations, and also presented the country’s approaches to ensuring water security, the rational use and conservation of water resources, and adaptation to the impacts of climate change.Ambassador Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev presented the program of the Regional Ecological Summit, which will be held on April 22–24, 2026 in Astana and will serve as a key Central Asian platform for attracting green investment, as well as for discussing climate change and sustainable development issues with the participation of business representatives and the expert community.On his part, Minister Hirotaka Ishihara emphasized Tokyo’s proactive stance in addressing global environmental challenges and confirmed Japan’s participation in the Regional Ecological Summit at the political level. He noted the importance of the Memorandum of cooperation between the relevant authorities of the two countries, signed during the first official visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to Japan, and also expressed interest in implementing projects under the Joint Credit Mechanism (JCM) aimed at introducing environmentally friendly technologies and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tokyo/press/news/details/1183395?lang=kk

There is a place in the Akmola Region where everyone can truly immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the past and learn more about the culture, traditions, and history of our country.The multimedia interactive complex in Burabay attracts tourists with its authenticity, rich content, and accessibility. Visitors do not only gain new knowledge but also spend their time in a meaningful way — through excursions , family outings, or educational visits.The complex consists of two floors and features nine thematic zones. Each zone showcases the culture, history, and key stages in the formation of the Kazakh nation using modern multimedia solutions such as LED screens, projection holograms, touch panels, interactive platforms, and immersive visual effects.The development of such facilities is an important part of strengthening the tourism potential of the Akmola Region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aqmola-tourism/press/news/details/1183323?lang=kk

Starting from January 1, 2026, a new Tax Code came into force in the Republic of Kazakhstan, предусматривающий a number of significant changes in tax administration. One of the key innovations is the expansion of the application of the simplified procedure for refunding excess value-added tax (VAT).In the Republic of Kazakhstan, VAT refunds have traditionally been accompanied by tax audits, which often resulted in significant time costs and increased administrative burden on taxpayers. In this regard, one of the directions for improving tax administration has been the introduction and expansion of the simplified VAT refund procedure.The adoption of the new Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which came into force in 2026, represents an important stage in the reform of the tax system and is aimed at improving the efficiency of tax administration, promoting business activity, and supporting the country’s export potential.As part of the tax reform this year, the mechanism for simplified VAT refund of excess amounts has been significantly expanded in Kazakhstan. Previously, this procedure was applied only to a limited group of taxpayers included in special lists and meeting a number of strict criteria.In accordance with Article 127 of the Tax Code, starting from January 1, 2026, the simplified procedure for refunding excess amounts may be applied by taxpayers who:1.are subject to tax monitoring and, during the calendar year, carried out transactions subject to a zero VAT rate;2.have transactions subject to a zero VAT rate amounting to at least 50 percent of the total taxable turnover for the tax period.The excess tax amount shall be refunded provided that the following conditions are simultaneously met:1.absence of any outstanding notifications as of the date of submission of the refund claim;2.availability of an excess tax amount confirmed for refund based on the results of a tax audit within the twelve months preceding the date of submission of the refund claim.The refund of the excess tax amount to the taxpayer under the simplified procedure shall be carried out within fifteen working days following the date of submission of the refund claim.Thus, the amendments to the Tax Code significantly expand the opportunities for taxpayers to apply the simplified VAT refund procedure. These measures are expected to have a positive impact on the development of the export sector of the economy and will become an important step in the modernization of the tax system of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1183295?lang=kk

Warsaw, March 16, 2026 — As part of the Nauryz celebrations, a cultural event dedicated to the Day of Kazakhstan was held at the Warsaw University of Technology.The event brought together more than 100 participants, including students and representatives of the academic community.In their opening remarks, the organizers emphasized the importance of developing academic and cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan and Poland, as well as the role of the university environment in strengthening international ties.During the official part of the event, the leadership of the Warsaw University of Technology highlighted the importance of international educational initiatives, academic mobility, and the contribution of Kazakhstani students to the educational landscape of Polish universities.Representatives of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Warsaw underscored the symbolic significance of holding the event during the Nauryz celebrations — an ancient holiday of spring and renewal that embodies the values of friendship, mutual understanding, and cultural diversity.In this context, attention was also drawn to the referendum held in Kazakhstan on the further development of the constitutional foundations of the state, aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and building a modern, open society.It was noted that Kazakhstan and Poland are connected by strong partnership relations based on mutual respect, shared historical memory, and active intergovernmental dialogue. The dynamic development of cooperation in the fields of education, science, and youth policy was also emphasized.Participants were also introduced to Kazakhstan’s modern development, its scientific and technological potential, and achievements across various sectors.The cultural program featured a tasting of traditional Kazakh dishes, allowing participants to gain a deeper appreciation of Kazakhstan’s rich gastronomic traditions.The event served as an important platform for cultural exchange and for strengthening academic ties between the two countries. Participants had the opportunity to learn more about Kazakhstan’s history, traditions, and contemporary achievements.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-warsaw/press/news/details/1183262?lang=kk

         The State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan informs participants in foreign economic activity about the possibility of obtaining preliminary decisions on the classification of goods in accordance with the customs legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Eurasian Economic Union.       A preliminary decision on the classification of goods is an official document confirming the product code according to the Commodity Nomenclature of Foreign Economic Activity (HS of the EAEU) before its actual import into the customs territory.       Obtaining a preliminary decision provides participants in foreign economic activity with a number of significant advantages:      - simplification and acceleration of the procedure for customs clearance of goods;     - reducing the risks of customs value adjustments and classification disputes;     - minimizing the likelihood of administrative liability;    - increasing transparency and predictability of foreign economic transactions;   - allows you to pre-calculate the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as restrictions and permits for the import of goods.;   - reduction of financial and time costs during customs procedures.      The State Revenue Committee recommends that participants in foreign economic activity actively use this tool as an effective mechanism to protect their interests and improve the quality of customs administration.     An application for a preliminary decision is submitted only through the IS «Keden» (https://keden.kgd.gov.kz) in accordance with the established procedure, accompanied by the necessary technical and commercial documents that allow for unambiguous identification of the product.     The State Revenue Committee continues to work to create favorable conditions for the development of foreign trade, simplify customs procedures and increase the level of trust between government agencies and the business community. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1183228?lang=kk

Today, the Head of State signed the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan Regarding the Support of the Tourism Industry and Children’s Sports.” The law is aimed at improving conditions for the development of the tourism sector and increasing the effectiveness of state support measures.Under the new law, the key concepts in tourism legislation have been clarified, including tour guides, excursion leaders, tourist resources, and tourism facilities. The requirement for guides and excursion leaders to operate as individual entrepreneurs has been removed, allowing professionals to work independently of their organizational and legal form.The law introduces legal regulation for visitor centers, defining their legal status, functions, placement rules, and classification as tourism facilities. These centers will serve as key points for informing tourists about routes, services, and infrastructure, ensuring a unified standard of service for both domestic and foreign visitors.The law also clarifies state support measures for tourism infrastructure. It provides for reimbursement of part of the costs for entrepreneurs involved in the construction and reconstruction of visitor centers, roadside service facilities, tourist accommodations, the purchase of equipment for ski resorts, and tourist transport.Support measures for tour operators are included, such as cost subsidies and the acceleration of tourist buses’ passage through state border checkpoints. Additionally, children’s visits to national parks will be free of charge.A five-year monitoring system has been introduced to ensure the targeted use of supported facilities, along with oversight of sanitary and hygiene facilities at tourist sites.The set of changes is aimed at establishing a sustainable foundation for the development of domestic and inbound tourism, increasing the sector’s investment attractiveness, and attracting qualified professionals. The law also consolidates the authority of state bodies to define priority tourist territories and coordinate visitor centers with organizations established to support the industry.The adopted measures create conditions for the development of infrastructure, improvement of tourism service quality, and strengthening Kazakhstan’s position as a safe and attractive travel destination.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aqmola-tourism/press/news/details/1183182?lang=kk

On February 25, 2026, a joint meeting of the standing committees of the Mendykara District Maslikhat was held. The meeting of the standing committees discussed preparations for public hearings of the Mendykara District Maslikhat.In accordance with the regulations of the Mendykara District Maslikhat, public hearings are held to discuss the most important and socially significant issues within the purview of the standing committees. The transfer of the Borovskoye Housing and Utilities-2016 State Public Enterprise to a competitive environment is one such issue.On March 17, 2026, the Mendykara District Maslikhat, together with the local executive authority, held public hearings on the privatization of the Borovskoye Housing and Utilities-2016 State Public Utilities Enterprise, a property complex of the Department of Housing and Utilities, Passenger Transport, and Highways of the Mendykara District. The hearings were attended by K. R. Rakhmetkaliev, Chairman of the Mendykara District Maslikhat; N. O. Bazhirov, Deputy Akim of the Mendykara District; A. K. Akhmetbekova, Acting Head of the Finance Department of the Mendykara District; and district residents.Previously, by resolution of the standing committee on socio-economic development of the district, planning and budget, industrial development, small and medium-sized businesses, agricultural issues, and law and order of the district maslikhat, a working group was established. This working group conducted a detailed month-long study of the Borovskoye Housing and Utilities Enterprise-2016, examining all aspects of its transfer to a competitive environment.During the public hearings, reports and positions of authorized bodies were presented, along with the opinions of those present regarding the circumstances and consequences of privatization. Following the public hearings, participants reached a consensus on the inadvisability of privatizing the state-owned utility company "Borovskoye Housing and Utilities-2016" of the state institution "Department of Housing and Utilities, Passenger Transport, and Highways of the Mendykarinsky District."Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/maslihat-mendikara/press/news/details/1183165?lang=kk

Families of different generations gathered around a symbolic half-yurt: golden jubilee couples, experienced families, and young pairs. The participants shared the secrets of family happiness, spoke about their traditions, and took part in an educational quiz on Kazakh customs and kinship ties.A particularly touching moment was the blessing (bata) given by the older generation to the young families.Such gatherings remind us of what matters most: family is our support, warmth, and the continuation of traditions. May every home be filled with peace, harmony, and joy, and may every shanyrak always remain high and strong!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-bmalin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1184128?lang=kk

March 16, as part of Nauryznama, the third day is celebrated — the Day of Culture and National Traditions. This day is dedicated to promoting the centuries-old cultural heritage of our people, their customs, and national values.At the rural club of the village of Bastauyshy, handicraft exhibitions were organized featuring traditional Kazakh items — the sacred dombra, kobyz, and chest, all handmade.The Day of Culture and National Traditions is an important opportunity to better understand the spiritual roots of the nation and to revive traditions that are beginning to be forgotten. This initiative is especially aimed at increasing the younger generation’s respect for national values.May our country’s culture flourish, and may our traditions always be honored!We wish every home well-being, prosperity, and unity. May our culture continue to develop, and may our national values live on forever!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar-bastaushy/press/news/details/1183045?lang=kk

Private Aziz Temirbek, a conscript serviceman of Military Unit 5571 of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty, conscientiously fulfills his military duty while also promoting national art.Eighteen-year-old Aziz was born in the Syrdarya district of the Kyzylorda region. From early childhood, he developed a passion for the dombra. He received his first lessons on the national instrument at school from his teacher Gulnaz Seraliyeva. Later, he continued his studies at the Kazangap Kyzylorda Higher Music College, where he refined his performance skills under the guidance of instructor Zhansultan Zhumabek.Today, the guardsman knows nearly 100 kyuis by heart. Among the most expressive pieces in his repertoire are well-known works of Kazakh dombra music — “Saryarka,” “Serper,” “Aksak Kiik,” “Toremurat,” “Baizhuma” and others. According to Aziz, he mastered most popular kyuis by reading sheet music.— For me, the dombra is a sacred heritage that reflects the culture and traditions of our people. Even while serving in the military, I am glad to continue the traditions of the Syrdarya school of kyui performance, — says the serviceman.Currently, Aziz is serving in Almaty, ensuring public order and the safety of citizens. In his free time, at the request of his fellow servicemen, he takes up the dombra and performs familiar kyuis. His heartfelt playing lifts the spirits of the soldiers and strengthens their morale.The presence of such talented young people among the servicemen of the National Guard is a vivid testament to the continuity of national culture. Through the sound of the dombra, Aziz Temirbek continues the centuries-old traditions of Kazakh kyui, passing this spiritual heritage on to the next generation. #NAURYZNAMA Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1182976?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1182987?lang=kk

Today, a nationwide referendum is being held in the country on the issue of a new Constitution. Servicemen of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan are also actively participating in this important political campaign.All military units of the National Guard have created the necessary conditions to conduct the referendum at a high level. In total, 36 polling stations have been opened, allowing guardsmen and their family members to exercise their constitutional right. The voting procedure has been organized in accordance with legal requirements, based on the principles of openness and transparency.Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs — Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard, Major General Ansagan Baltabekov, was among the first to cast his vote at polling station No. 266.This day became especially memorable for Private Artur Yarovoy, a serviceman of Military Unit 5573. He took part in voting for the first time in his life, and this significant event coincided with his birthday.According to Artur, participating in a political campaign that is important for the future of the country while performing military service is a great responsibility. He noted that such moments show that every citizen cares about the fate of the state.Officers, contract servicemen, their family members, veterans, and conscript soldiers are all taking part in the referendum. For many young servicemen, this has become their first voting experience.The Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard congratulated the serviceman celebrating his birthday, as well as those taking part in a political campaign for the first time, and thanked them for their civic engagement.Thus, on the day of the referendum, soldiers of the National Guard demonstrated not only their loyalty to the military oath, but also their clear civic stance at an important moment in the country’s life. Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1182968?lang=kk

On March 16, 2026, a meeting was held at the Regional Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Zhambyl Region on the topic: "On comprehensive measures to eliminate barriers hindering business development." The meeting was attended by authorized bodies (prosecutor's offices, representatives of the Departments of Economic Investigations, Justice, Trade, and Consumer Protection, sectoral business councils, Chambers of Entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurs), as well as K.B. Shaiduev, Deputy Head of the Department of Economic Investigations for Zhambyl Region, and E.M. Nurmahanbetov, Head of the Department of Economic Investigations.💠      During the meeting, the DGD presented a report on the following areas: 1) implementation of comprehensive measures to reduce the tax burden on micro and small businesses from scratch (including: write–off of penalties and fines, termination of activities in a simplified manner, reduction of tax audits, termination of filing claims, non–prosecution and relaxation of desk control); 2) on ongoing activities within the framework of the breakthrough project to bring business out of the shadows "The strength of the entrepreneur is in honesty, consumer protection is in the fiscal check"; and 3) about the progress of the "People's Accountant" campaign.The meeting raised various issues related to business support and proposed joint work to address current issues.Department of Explanatory Work and Contact Center DGD in Zhambyl regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhambyl/press/news/details/1182951?lang=kk