AI Could Boost Productivity of Kazakhstan’s Workforce, Study Finds
AI is poised to significantly enhance workforce productivity in Kazakhstan without triggering mass job losses, according to the initial findings of a joint study by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and the international analytical agency Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). The results were presented at a government meeting on January 6.
Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek emphasized that AI should be seen not as a threat to employment but as a tool to augment human labor and improve efficiency.
“About 70% of Kazakhstan’s workforce has medium or high potential for productivity growth through the use of artificial intelligence. In 53% of occupations, automation of specific job functions is possible. In most cases, this doesn’t mean job elimination but rather changes in job content and evolving skill requirements,” Nurbek said.
In response to the findings, the ministry is developing a phased action plan to modernize Kazakhstan’s higher education system. Starting in 2025, AI-related skills are being integrated into all educational programs. Currently, 95 universities across the country have already introduced AI disciplines into their curricula.
Nurbek also announced the forthcoming establishment of an Artificial Intelligence University, in line with a directive from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The new institution will focus on training specialists in interdisciplinary fields aligned with industry demand and will conduct applied research. It will operate as part of the Alem.ai ecosystem and collaborate with leading global universities and tech companies.
Tokayev has declared the transformation of Kazakhstan into a digital nation within three years as a national goal. In his New Year’s address, he designated 2026 as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence Development. Speaking to Turkistan newspaper on January 5, he underscored Kazakhstan’s strategic commitment to the widespread adoption of AI across the economy and public life.
According to Tokayev, Kazakhstan has a strong foundation, built on progress in digital public services, fintech, and several key economic sectors. Two national supercomputers, Alem.Cloud and Al-Farabium, have already been launched. In 2025, Kazakhstan’s IT service exports reached approximately $1 billion.
“The advent of artificial intelligence has created a dividing line between countries that will make it into the future and those that will be left behind. That is why I have declared digital technologies and artificial intelligence a priority for Kazakhstan’s development,” Tokayev said.
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