02. Master's Thesis
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Item Open Access EVALUATION OF THE EU-FUNDED PROJECT ON THE EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN FROM AFGHANISTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Altenova, Madina; Goncsarenko, Karina; Hussain, SafdarThe purpose of this study is to examine the 2019 EU-funded project on the empowerment of Afghan women via training and education. In this research, we analyze the project's development, implementation, stakeholder issues and challenges, as well as broader implications for gender equality in post-conflict areas, such as that of Afghanistan. A qualitative methodology is used to analyze documents, as well as conduct in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including EU representatives, UNDP officials, partner university administrators, who are all part of the initiative. The two-phased project was aimed at providing Afghan females with higher education opportunities and future career prospects. Findings show that the implementation of the project was rather smooth and the participants who participated were successful in their studies. However, following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, the project changed immensely and the reintegration of females into Afghan society and job market became close to impossible; thus, most females seek to build a new life and use their skills abroad. Findings highlight the need for enhanced post-graduation support for participants, as well as more flexible and adaptable implementation strategy to accommodate shifting political landscapes. This study serves as a project evaluation paper, with a target demographic of scholars and policymakers actively involved in international development and gender studies. This research also enhances the discussion on women's empowerment and provides valuable insights into the intricacies of implementing extensive programs in developing nations.Item Embargo MOONLIGHTING IN PUBLIC HEALTH SECTOR OF KAZAKHSTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-11) Zhexekeyeva, Kamila; Umirova, Aikerim; Akyzhanov, MadiMoonlighting, the practice of holding multiple jobs, has become widespread globally, including Kazakhstan. Among other work sectors, public healthcare has unique factors that encourage moonlighting, including non-standard shifts, irregular work hours, and low wages in the public sector. The main purpose of this paper is to analyze the push and pull factors of moonlighting in public healthcare in Kazakhstan. We conducted an online survey among public hospitals and polyclinics in three big cities—Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent—that included healthcare providers. Logistic regression was applied with moonlighting as the binary outcome variable. We found that age was a major predictor, whereby younger professionals (less than 35) were over twice the probability to moonlight. Experience also comes into play; those who had more than three years of work experience tended to have secondary employment. Even though more women did moonlight as well, gender was not found to be statistically significant, although younger women in some specialties were less likely to moonlight, suggesting potential institutional or individual constraints. We recommend policymakers not to restrict moonlighting because it predominantly occurs in the same healthcare sector, not in irrelevant jobs. Enabling equitable access to regulated dual employment—especially among young and female professionals—may improve workforce experience and increase the supply of healthcare services in Kazakhstan's public healthcare sector.Item Embargo PUBLIC TRUST IN NGOS IN KAZAKHSTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-18) Amanbieke, Ailiya; Sagyndyk, Gulzhazira; Tleubekov, TalgatbekPublic trust in various non-governmental organizations in Kazakhstan remains low. The representatives of NGO in Kazakhstan believe that the reduced level of public trust in civil society and specifically in non-governmental organizations is the main obstacle to its development. The main goal of this study is to define and analyze the key factors that influence the public trust in NGOs in Kazakhstan. To do so, we used the concurrent embedded mixed-methods approach and collected both qualitative and quantitative data . During this study we conducted a survey in the Kyzylorda Region and took semi-structured interviews with NGO representatives from different sectors and several regions of Kazakhstan. The findings of the study demonstrate that the level of public trust in NGOs in Kazakhstan is rather low. Notably, regression analysis shows that trust in government, political interest, media perception of NGOs, and frequency of interaction with NGOs are crucial factors that impact public trust, while demographic characteristics demonstrate a low influence.Item Embargo WOMEN’S ACCESS TO WORK AND DECISION-MAKING IN KAZAKHSTAN’S CIVIL SERVICE(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Irgaliyeva, Zarina; Nurmukhamed, Danagul; Sariyev, YerbolKazakhstan’s civil service consists of the majority of women, yet female civil servants are underrepresented in leadership positions and face distinct career challenges. Using a triangulation method, consisting of 13 semi-structured interviews, one focus group, and a documentary analysis of policy documents, this study examines the extent to which women have fair and equal access to recruiting, promotion, decision making, and pay opportunities in civil service within the capital city of Kazakhstan. The major findings of this policy analysis exercise reveal that women in Astana’s civil service face implicit cultural or social biases and lack access to influential informal networks, which hinder their professional advancement. In addition, some female civil servants tend to prioritize job stability over career aspirations, partially for reasons of personal choices. Finally, Kazakhstan’s legal basis for gender equality in civil service is underdeveloped, which underlines a significant gap in institutional support for female civil servants. Thus, the study contributes to gender equality discourse within public administration and provides policy recommendations for policymakers to build a more equitable and inclusive civil service in the country that includes improving transparent mechanisms in recruitment and promotion, initiating leadership programs, and enhancing work-life balance policies targeted for women.Item Embargo CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS IN KAZAKHSTAN: INVESTIGATING PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE AND POLICY GAPS(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Aitore, Moldir; Alisheva, Azhar; Shakarim, Rassul; Kengshilik, NurzhanThere is a growing significance of cybersecurity worldwide, including in Kazakhstan. Increased internet usage in this country has been accompanied by a rise in cyber attacks. For instance, according to the JSC State Technical Service, more than 41,000 incidents of cybersecurity have been recorded in 2024, including network worms, Trojans and viruses. This paper highlights a concerning lack of cybersecurity awareness among the population, citing the fact that human error and negligence accounted for 80% of all cyber breaches. To address these issues, the research aims to answer three key questions: the extent of cybersecurity awareness among Kazakh citizens, the factors influencing this awareness, and the government's policies to improve cybersecurity awareness. A limited amount of literature that studies on cybersecurity awareness in Kazakhstan have hindered the investigation in these areas. To fill this gap, this paper will employ a mixed methods approach, utilizing interviews to examine government policies and questionnaires to assess citizen awareness as well as factors affecting it. It also aims to provide insights that could help the Kazakh government, specifically the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry, and the National Security Committee, improve cybersecurity policies and protect citizens from cyber threats.Item Open Access OPEN GOVERNMENT AS A STRATEGY TO PROMOTE CITIZEN PARTICIPATION IN KAZAKHSTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Ali, Nisar; Iskakov, Assan; Kurmanov, Damir; Ashim, AruzhanOver the last decade, Kazakhstan has implemented numerous open government initiatives to promote transparency, civic participation, accountability etc. One of the fundamental pillars of open government is citizens’ participation which ensures the involvement of citizens in decision making, providing feedback etc. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of open government portals, i.e, E-government portal (www.egov.kz) and Open Akimat to explore the level of citizens’ engagement on these government portals focusing on the case of Astana. Citizen Participation is defined as the active involvement of citizens in government decision-making processes, including raising concerns, providing feedback, and engaging in governance through both online and offline means. Qualitative research method has been used for the evaluation purpose, which consists of surveys of Astana residents and content analysis of the government web portals. The surveys with Astana residents provide the ground realities of the level of citizens engagement with the open government portals and the content analysis sheds light on the up to date data regarding the citizens’ engagement on portals. The study explores the difficulties faced by citizens regarding their engagement, their awareness level about government portals and potential recommendations on how the government can improve citizens’ participation further. The results of our study reveal that although many citizens in Astana are aware of the existence of open government platforms, actual participation remains low. People generally do not engage actively on the web portals because of technical difficulties, lack of government responsiveness, and concerns about data security. Despite the presence of multiple digital platforms aimed at increasing transparency and civic involvement, citizens feel that these platforms are not user-friendly, and their input often goes unnoticed. The findings suggest that improving accessibility, responsiveness, incentives, and awareness efforts is crucial for fostering meaningful citizen engagement.Item Embargo EXPLORING THE EMPLOYMENT CHALLENGES AND WELLBEING IMPLICATIONS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN KAZAKHSTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Iheanyi, Chiamaka; Aisin, AkanPeople with disabilities (PWDs) in Kazakhstan are confronted with significant employment challenges that affect their overall well-being. Although legal frameworks and government initiatives, such as the subsidy and quota system aimed at promoting inclusion exist, barriers such as workplace discrimination, inadequate accessibility, and limited education and training opportunities persist. This research study examines the employment situation for people with disabilities in Kazakhstan. This is done by identifying key employment obstacles and the social and economic consequences of their exclusion from the workforce. With the use of a mixed-methods approach, the research combines statistical data from a secondary source, a focus group discussion and qualitative insights from people with disabilities, employers, government officials, advocates, and NGOs. Findings reveal the critical gaps in workplace inclusivity, employer attitudes, and support systems, contributing to labour market exclusion and economic hardship. Furthermore, the study evaluates the broader well-being implications, including financial insecurity and reduced quality of life. The research draws its conclusions from the findings by proposing policy recommendations to improve employment opportunities for PWDs, workplace accommodations, and social support mechanisms, with the sole aim of fostering a more inclusive labor market in Kazakhstan. Insights from this study are also beneficial to researchers and scholars working in the fields of disability studies, social policy, and labour economics. The results of this study will help Kazakhstan's labor market to become more inclusive and also serve as an important guide for other nations looking to provide fair job possibilities for individuals with disabilities.Item Embargo COMPARATIVE CROSS-COUNTRY ANALYSIS OF EVALUATION POLICIES AND SYSTEM IN ARMENIA, AZERBAIJAN AND GEORGIA(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-01) Khamit, Aida; Kapasheva, Nargiz; Sultanova, AigerimThis Policy Analysis Exercise (PAE) presents a comparative cross-country analysis of National Evaluation Systems (NES) in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. The study aims to assess the current state of NES in the South Caucasus region, to identify key barriers and opportunities and to analyse how political and economic realities affect performance of evaluation systems. In order to achieve these objectives, we conducted deep analysis of policy documents, institutional reports and collected primary qualitative data. The analysis identifies three key obstacles, such as limited political will, severe resource constraints, and capacity gaps. Based on the case study analysis of Malaysia and South Africa, we created recommendations that focus on formalizing NES, creating a central, independent coordinating body, building capacity, and shifting from output-based metrics to outcome-oriented evaluation. The PAE offers practical recommendations towards strengthening evaluation systems in the South Caucasus region, which ensure transparency, accountability and evidence-based policy making.Item Open Access FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PRICE RECALL ABILITIES OF CONSUMERS A CASE STUDY OF NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Amrenov, Timur; Gabitov, Darmen; Zhetpisbayev, AdilWe have found that people can either forget or recall the prices of the products they have just bought for various reasons and among them, there are a few unexpected factors. The number of products a person has just bought, their age, whether they always check the prices to be sure they get the best value, and if they plan before they shop - those are significant factors that impact the people’s ability to successfully recall the prices. However, if we focus on locations, grocery stores, such as Ailin and ex-Vesna become significant, as the biggest number of people fail to recall the prices in these locations on the campus of Nazarbayev University. We have decided to focus on the campus of Nazarbayev University, where numerous stores, shops, and coffee shops are located, which all have different prices for similar or the same products. The demographics of the campus are also favorable, representing almost all age groups of adults. Particularly, the analysis will be focused on how widespread this phenomenon is; how the people at Nazarbayev University cope with it; what differences could be found between different demographic groups; and what effect the technologies are having on this problem. To conduct this research, we have collected data (300+ responses) to analyze the limited memory of consumers on the university campus, as well as to conclude if there is a correlation between demographic features and consumer behavior. The discussion of limited memory at Nazarbayev University campus is important since it may lead to the occurrence of price dispersion, and the different pricing for the same products across shops. This research will be beneficial to the research field, as it will contribute to the general literature concerned with consumer behavior since the campus presents a unique opportunity to study a variety of firms and consumer groups.Item Embargo EXAMINING FACULTY AND STAFF PERCEPTIONS OF ENERGY USE AT NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Butt, Khadija; Naiman, Alikhan; Ussina, NazymThe study analyzes the faculty and staff perception of energy-saving behavior at Nazarbayev University. Using a mixed-methods approach, 54 survey responses were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, whereas 12 semi structured interviews were conducted and analyzed through content analysis. The survey and interview respondents shared their awareness of sustainable energy use, factors influencing energy conservation, and the barriers faced in reducing energy consumption in their daily activities on campus. The research is structured around the Theory of Planned Behavior to assess how its components of Personal Attitude, Subjective Norm, and Perceived Behavioral Control influence energy use behavior. The research findings revealed that Personal Attitude is a significant factor influencing faculty and staff energy conservation practices, whereas Subjective Norms and Perceived Behavioral Control had a weak correlation with the energy-saving behavior of faculty and staff at Nazarbayev University. The results show that faculty and staff have low awareness of energy conservation initiatives at the university. Policy recommendations based on international experience are provided for the Nazarbayev University administration to promote sustainable energy-saving behavior among faculty and staff through reduced communication gaps, integrated sustainability culture into the workplace, and implemented desired engagement and incentive initiatives. The next step of the research is to expand the sample size and conduct an inter-organization comparison to understand whether similar energy-saving behavior exists beyond Nazarbayev University. Future studies are encouraged to apply the extended theory of planned behavior or alternative behavior models and improve the measurement of perceived behavioral control by separating the internal and external factors.Item Embargo EVALUATION OF THE ROLE OF NATIONAL PROJECTS IN PROMOTING REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE OF "STRONG REGIONS - DRIVER OF THE COUNTRY'S DEVELOPMENT"(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2025-04-04) Ibekenova, Aruzhan; Makashev, Galymzhan; Bolys, ZharasThis paper investigates the execution mechanisms of national projects focusing on the abrogated “Strong Regions – Driver of the Country’s Development” in Kazakhstan. Through a qualitative approach encompassing semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and secondary data, it examines how centralized governance structures, uniform Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and limited local autonomy shape the outcomes of regional development initiatives. The findings highlight how universal KPIs, designed primarily for short-term, quantifiable objectives, often overlook differing regional needs, hence complicating efforts to ensure equal access to essential infrastructure and social services. Moreover, local authorities restricted autonomy and constrained communication channels obstruct effective collaboration with the central government, resulting in budget allocations that may not reflect actual conditions on the ground. Therefore, the study argues that addressing regional disparities requires targeted, region-specific strategies, robust institutional frameworks, and enhanced data-sharing tools. It also provides insights from comparable large-scale economies that underscore the importance of well-coordinated infrastructure planning and empowered local governance. As Kazakhstan proceeds with further reforms – such as gradual fiscal decentralization and direct local akim elections – adopting a multi-stakeholder, data-driven, and context-sensitive approach could significantly improve the long-term impact of national development initiatives.Item Embargo BUILDING A COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL IMPACT MEASUREMENT FRAMEWORK FOR UNICEF: INTEGRATING ESG PRINCIPLES AND ADDRESSING CHALLENGES OF AGGREGATION(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-03) Aben, Dauren; Mukhambetzhanov, Daulet; Kanatbayeva, ShynarThis paper constructs an overall social impact measurement model for UNICEF, integrating ESG principles that shall enhance program effectiveness and accountability. We adopt a mixed-methods approach: we conduct document analysis from UNICEF annual reports from the year 2000 to 2023, perform quantitative regression analyses of health and education outcomes, and conduct the collection of insights from stakeholders via surveys and interviews. The findings also reveal that while environmental and social dimensions have increasingly been incorporated into the frameworks of UNICEF, much is yet to be done about its governance dimensions, which may hinder transparency and accountability. The regression results highlight that health investments by UNICEF, in actuality, cut down the under-five mortality rates; therefore, the programs are effective. On the other hand, it is found that investment in education is unrelated to enrollment rates, thus signaling systemic issues beyond financial inputs. This is further corroborated by the call from stakeholders for increased integration of ESG, with a higher emphasis on governance practices that would help inspire confidence and create better long-term outcomes. In building upon such a strategy are suggestions for increased integration within the strategic framework regarding governance, coherence in data collection methodologies, stakeholder outreach, advanced data analytics, and management software. This conceptual framework would position UNICEF to better measure and communicate its social impact, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Goals by building on the outcomes of sustainable development.Item Open Access FACTORS THAT IMPACT STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION WITH MEDICAL CARE AT THE NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11) Zhumanov, Kanat; Kyzyrbayeva, Dinara; Sadvakassov, AskarThe objective of this research is to identify and assess the factors affecting students’ overall satisfaction with the quality of healthcare services provided by the UHC at Nazarbayev University. NU1 is widely recognized as one of the leading higher education institutions in Central Asia and it has its own medical center - UHC, which was established in 2018. UHC has since focused on achieving high standards in its services to meet the healthcare needs of NU’s growing student and staff population. The UHC employs 65 staff members, including both healthcare specialists and administrative personnel.Item Open Access ETHNO-MEDIATION IN CONFLICT PREVENTION: AN INSIGHT ON THE COUNCIL OF AKSAKALS AND THE COUNCIL OF MOTHERS(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11) Abylgazina, Kuralay; Abirbek, Sauryk; Onyinyechi Doris ChimaThis study examines the role of traditional councils, in particular the Council of Aksakals and Mothers, in ethnomediation and conflict prevention in Kazakhstan. It focuses on the events in Kordai district in 2020 to analyze the extent to which state policies, media narratives, and public perceptions converge or diverge in their approaches to resolving interethnic tensions. Using a qualitative methodology, the study includes analysis of state policies, media discourse, and interviews with local residents, government officials, and experts to assess the effectiveness and challenges of existing conflict management mechanisms. The results reveal significant gaps between centralized and formalized state policies, media criticism of their rigidity and delays, and public trust in informal mechanisms based on cultural traditions. State policies emphasize national unity and integration through formal structures such as the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, while the media highlights socio-economic inequalities and lack of responsiveness. Local communities trust the Councils of Aksakals and Mothers for their local mediation efforts, but acknowledge their limitations due to the lack of institutional support...Item Embargo ANALYZING THE FACTOR-POINT SCALE OF PAY FOR CIVIL SERVANTS: EXPLORING BENEFITS, DRAWBACKS, AND EVALUATING ITS IMPACT ON HUMAN RESOURCES(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-17) Janzakova, Urkiya; Omarov, Daniyal; Kairolda, AzamatThis study is a comprehensive analysis of the Factor-Point Scale of Pay model applied in Kazakhstan’s civil service. It researches the impact of the FPS compensation system on different dimensions of the civil service such as recruitment, retention, and overall performance of civil servants. With the use of a mixed-methods approach, the study analyses the work and influence of the Astana Civil Service Hub (ACSH) as a primary venue for research. By assessing how effectively the Factor-Point Scale of Pay aligns with the country’s strategical objectives for the civil service excellence. Throughout the research, the study uncovered both the strengths and weaknesses of the compensation model. It highlighted the system’s positive aspects, such as its objective and transparent nature, which contribute to fairness and trust within the civil service. However, the research also shed light on potential drawbacks, such as the system’s rigidity in rewarding exceptional performance and its possible impact on talent acquisition and retention. The core findings emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding of how the Factor-Point Scale operates within the specific context of Kazakhstan. This includes considering the system’s adaptability to market-driven changes and its ability to attract and retain top talent within the civil service. As an outcome of the study a several recommendations were developed in order to support the continious implementation of FPS and its improvement. These recommendations are focused on enhancing flexibility within the compensation model, aligning it more precisely with evolving market trends, and leveraging the expertise of ACSH in enhancing the capacity of the civil service in Kazakhstan and fostering the innovation. Ultimately, the research aimed to contribute to the evolution of a more responsive, efficient, and motivated civil service system in Kazakhstan.Item Embargo EVALUATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION MODELS IN UZBEKISTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-17) Tomashpayeva, Sabina; Karimsakov, TimurThis study evaluates UNICEF-supported alternative Early Childhood Education (ECE) models in Uzbekistan, addressing challenges in access, equity, and quality of preschool education. The research hypothesizes that these models significantly improve coverage, accessibility, and quality standards, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative and qualitative data to assess the effectiveness, scalability, and sustainability of these alternative models. Data collection included interviews with teachers, surveys with parents, and a review of national policies and administrative records. Findings indicate that the alternative ECE centers effectively increased enrollment among marginalized groups and improved children’s readiness for school, meeting the national Early Learning Development Standards (ELDS). However, challenges such as teacher retention, inconsistent training, and resource constraints impact the program's scalability and long-term sustainability. The study highlights the importance of addressing systemic disparities in preschool education and provides actionable recommendations to improve service delivery. These include standardizing teacher training, enhancing monitoring systems, and developing mechanisms to ensure financial and operational sustainability. By addressing these gaps, UNICEF and the Government of Uzbekistan can further strengthen ECE programs to ensure equitable access and high-quality education for all children.Item Open Access EMPLOYABILITY OF DISABLED PERSONS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR OF ASTANA CITY WITH A FOCUS ON THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL PROTECTION IN THE AKIMAT OF ASTANA(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-03) Tleuberdi, Abylaikhan; Toibayeva, Assyl; Yesbossynova, AinurThis study examines the employment challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the private sector in Astana, focusing on issues related to job accessibility, workplace inclusivity, and retention. Despite government subsidies and policies aimed at increasing employability, significant barriers remain. Participants in this study included PWDs seeking employment, representatives of the Department of Employment and Social Protection, private sector employers, and NGO stakeholders. Using a mixed methods approach, data were collected through surveys, interviews, and document reviews. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed via survey of PWDs, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to identify prevailing challenges and patterns in the employment of PWDs. The results indicate that while financial incentives motivate initial hiring, they are insufficient to promote sustainable employment due to inadequate workplace conditions and limited retention efforts. The results highlight the need for more comprehensive policies that emphasize accessibility and long-term support systems in private organizations. This study contributes to the policy debate by providing evidence-based recommendations aimed at creating a more inclusive labor market for persons with disabilities in Astana, ultimately promoting both economic and social inclusion.Item Open Access PER CAPITA FUNDING INSTRUMENT FOR SUBSIDIZING INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN KAZAKHSTAN(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-17) Shaidarova, Karina; Nurbekova, Elmira; Baishan, AlmasThis study critically evaluates Kazakhstan's per capita funding instrument for inclusive education, designed to allocate funds based on student enrollment to support equitable access for students with special needs. Introduced in 2018 as a pilot program, the instrument has since expanded nationwide; however, gaps remain between policy goals and practice, with challenges around funding adequacy, inconsistent implementation, and varied practitioner perspectives. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with educational staff, this research identifies critical issues, such as insufficient resources, lack of standardization across regions, and disparities in tutor workloads. Findings reveal an average effectiveness rating of 6.4 out of 10, underscoring areas for improvement. Administrative staff reported greater challenges with operational implementation compared to school management, highlighting a need for unified training. Major recommendations include separating fixed operational costs from per capita funds, providing differentiated pay for tutors based on workload, and establishing robust monitoring mechanisms. These adjustments aim to improve the instrument’s transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds are used effectively to meet inclusive education goals. Overall, the study emphasizes that while the per capita funding instrument holds potential, substantive reforms are required to align it with Kazakhstan’s goals for inclusive education. Implementing these recommendations could bridge policy-practice gaps, fostering a more equitable and effective system for inclusive education funding.Item Open Access POLICIES TO INCREASE ATTRACTION OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: THE CASE OF NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-03) Shokayeva, Dinara; Taiganov, Nurlan; Kenzhegarinova, ShynarItem Open Access IMPLEMENTATION OF SEPARATE HOUSEHOLD WASTE COLLECTION IN ASTANA(Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Public Policy, 2024-11-03) Orazbakova, Aida; Sadyrbayeva, Zhibek; Totayev, AlmazThe growing waste management challenges in Astana, Kazakhstan, particularly with municipal solid waste, highlight the importance and necessity of separate waste collection at the household level. With separate waste collection, the targeted 40% rate of recycling could be achieved. This research investigates the current obstacles to the implementation of separate waste collection in Astana and what can be done to improve the situation. Through mixed-methods research, including surveys among the population of Astana city and interviews with the Ministry of Ecology and natural resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, employees at waste collection companies, and representatives of the local population, the study identifies issues related to the lack of infrastructure, inefficiency in the whole waste management process, insufficient awareness of the population about proper waste management, cultural resistance to change, and absence of appropriate legislation. Key suggestions include increasing private sector involvement, focusing on enhancing public education and strengthening policy enforcement to foster consistent, sustainable waste management practices. The findings contribute to understanding effective frameworks for separate waste collection and offer a foundation for advancing waste recycling efforts across Kazakhstan. However, introducing a system of financial remuneration or level of fines for non-compliance should be further researched. Overall, the proposed recommendations will be useful for everyone interested in improving waste management in Astana, and the local governing bodies across Kazakhstan.