On May 6, President Kasim-Jomart Tokaev signed a law introducing amendments to certain legal acts of Kazakhstan related to science and education. The changes aim to improve the material status of educators and researchers in the country, as well as promote scientific advancement and commercialization of scientific and technical results.
The first set of amendments provides monthly salary supplements to individuals with certain academic degrees and titles. Those with degrees such as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Science, Candidate of Science, and the academic title of Associate Professor will receive additional payments ranging from 92,300 tenge (US$210) to 184,600 tenge (US$419).
Monthly stipends are also available for scientists conducting research in their primary workplaces, with stipends funded from the investment income of a fund of higher education and postgraduate educational institutions for promising young scientists under the age of 40. This will provide financial support for researchers who are working on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to contribute significantly to scientific advancement.
Another aspect of the amendment focuses on educational benefits for military personnel. Quotas have been established for educational grants to support their training at higher education and post-graduate institutions after completing their mandatory military service. This will ensure that military personnel have access to quality education that will help them perform better in their roles.
The third part of the legal changes refers to projects aimed at the commercialization of scientific and technical results financed by economic entities. This will encourage businesses to invest in scientific research and development, which can lead to new products or services that can benefit society as a whole.
Finally, local executive authorities are empowered to implement state policies in the field of science and scientific activity in their regions. This will create a favorable environment for scientific advancement by providing resources and support for researchers who are working on innovative projects that have the potential to make a positive impact on society.
Overall, these amendments demonstrate a commitment from the government towards improving the material status of educators and researchers while promoting scientific advancement through funding opportunities and policy implementation at local levels.