Kazakhstan has taken an important step toward shaping its future in artificial intelligence. Within the framework of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, proclaimed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with the UNESCO Regional Office, has officially launched a project to assess the country’s national readiness for the use of artificial intelligence, DKNews.kz reports.
The initiative marks the start of a comprehensive, internationally recognized assessment of how prepared Kazakhstan is to develop and implement AI technologies in a responsible, inclusive, and sustainable way.
A comprehensive look at Kazakhstan’s AI ecosystem
The UNESCO-led project is designed to provide a holistic analysis of Kazakhstan’s national artificial intelligence ecosystem. Rather than focusing solely on technology, the assessment examines all key dimensions of AI development.
These include the legal and regulatory framework, as well as sociocultural, economic, scientific, educational, and technological aspects. Such a broad approach reflects the understanding that artificial intelligence affects not only innovation and industry, but also society, governance, education, and human values.
Focus on coordination and inclusive policy
A special emphasis within the project is placed on effective cross-sectoral and inter-agency coordination. According to UNESCO’s methodology, close cooperation between government institutions, academia, business, and civil society is a crucial prerequisite for building a balanced and inclusive AI policy.
This approach aims to ensure that the development of artificial intelligence benefits the entire society and avoids deepening social or economic divides.
National Stakeholder Team formed
To implement UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), Kazakhstan has established a National Stakeholder Team bringing together a wide range of key institutions and organizations.
The team includes representatives of the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the Ministry of Culture and Information, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, as well as the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
It also brings together non-governmental and expert institutions, including the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken”, Astana IT University, Ozim Academy, the Association for the Development of Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, the NGO Technowomen, the UNESCO Regional Office, the National Commission of Kazakhstan for UNESCO and ICESCO, and representatives of civil society organizations directly involved in the project’s implementation.
Toward a human-centred AI model
Based on the results of the assessment, practical recommendations will be developed to support the formation of a human-centred artificial intelligence ecosystem in Kazakhstan. This model prioritizes ethics, inclusivity, and respect for human rights, ensuring that technological progress aligns with social well-being.
Experts note that such an approach helps countries harness the benefits of AI while minimizing risks and safeguarding fundamental freedoms.
A strategic step for Kazakhstan
The implementation of this UNESCO project is seen as a significant milestone in Kazakhstan’s strategic course toward artificial intelligence development. It underscores the country’s commitment to international cooperation and to advancing AI in line with universal values, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.
By participating in this global assessment framework, Kazakhstan positions itself as a responsible and forward-looking player in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
