Strategic Steps for Artificial Intelligence Development in Kazakhstan
Strategic Steps for Artificial Intelligence Development in Kazakhstan
Artificial intelligence is being given strategic importance in Kazakhstan.
Over the past year, Kazakhstan has made significant decisions in the field of artificial intelligence, particularly reflecting the strong interest of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in this area. Tokayev has recently preferred to meet with experts abroad during his foreign visits while frequently hosting international AI representatives in Astana.
In January of this year, President Tokayev received globally recognized AI entrepreneur and head of the "Sinovation" Artificial Intelligence Venture Institute, Dr. Lee Kai-Fu, at the Presidential Palace Akorda. Around the same period, during his visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), he held a meeting with experts in AI development. In his latest meeting with the state authorities on AI development, Tokayev stated, “The development of artificial intelligence is a task of strategic importance for our country.”
Five-Year "Artificial Intelligence Development Concept" Adopted
The steps taken by the Kazakh government to develop AI, designated as a strategic state objective, are noteworthy. Last year, the Kazakh government adopted a five-year "Artificial Intelligence Development Concept," aiming to increase the number of AI-produced products fivefold by 2029, train around 500,000 industry specialists, and educate 5 million people in AI skills.
To implement these AI-related decisions rapidly, the Kazakh government has established a digital headquarters under the Prime Minister, focusing on increasing AI use in the real economy, health, and public sectors, promoting AI literacy among the population, and discovering young talents in the field.
Additionally, this year in Astana, Kazakhstan plans to open a National Artificial Intelligence Center named "Alem AI" and to adopt legislation related to artificial intelligence.
Astana Hub Plays a Key Role in Kazakhstan’s AI Sector
According to information obtained by Anadolu Agency (AA), activities aimed at spreading AI, training experts, and supporting local entrepreneurs in this field are being carried out within the Astana Hub Technopark.
Astana Hub, currently a leader in Central Asia, hosts more than 1,700 startup companies, including 450 with foreign capital. Astana Hub has launched a two-year AI school for university students and, in 2024, through its "AI’preneurs" platform established to bring AI ventures to life, succeeded in attracting investments worth more than $350,000.