AI REGULATIONS KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan has been proactive in leveraging digital technologies to enhance the quality of life for its citizens through various government programs. One of the most notable initiatives is the “Digital Kazakhstan” program, which ran from 2018 to 2022. This program, overseen by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry, aimed to raise living standards by integrating digital solutions across different sectors. A key focus of the program was to create a robust innovative ecosystem that fosters technological entrepreneurship. This involved establishing strong connections between businesses, academia, and the government to drive industrial innovations. The program aligns with several OECD AI principles, including promoting inclusive growth, investing in AI R&D, and nurturing a digital ecosystem for AI. The initiative directly benefited a wide range of stakeholders, from higher education and public research institutes to private investors and entrepreneurs, with an estimated annual budget expenditure of 100M-500M NIS.

Additionally, the Ministry of Education and Science spearheaded a complementary initiative from 2016 to 2018, focusing on developing competencies in smart technologies, AI, cyber-physical systems, and future energy solutions. This roadmap aimed to enhance educational, research, and industrial competencies in these cutting-edge fields, preparing the workforce for future labor market transitions. The initiative targeted the creation of an effective scientific and innovative system centered around key institutions like the high-tech park “Astana Business Campus,” Nazarbayev University, and the Alatau Technopark in Almaty. This roadmap was crucial in building human capacity and aligning Kazakhstan’s educational and industrial landscape with global technological advancements, addressing OECD AI principles related to building human capacity and preparing for labor market transitions.