Kazakhstan's agricultural sector is facing a severe labor shortage, with an estimated 6,500 specialists currently lacking across the industry, reports LS. The most critical gaps are among agronomists, veterinarians, engineers, and food processing experts.
According to official data, only 28% of employees in farming enterprises have specialized education, which affects both productivity and sector resilience. The shortage is further exacerbated by low wages, limited career prospects, and rural youth migration to urban areas.
Over the past 15 years, the number of farmers, foresters, and fishers in the country has more than halved.
Experts note that modernization of agricultural education is urgently needed. Proposed measures include a comprehensive labor market assessment, the update of university and college programs, and the expansion of dual training systems. Strengthening internship opportunities, developing a digital platform to track graduate employment, and increasing social support for young professionals are also among the key recommendations.
The "With a Diploma to the Village" program remains an important tool for attracting specialists to rural areas, though its effectiveness has declined. In 2024, only one in three participants was able to access preferential housing loans, while program funding dropped by nearly 30%.
Observers emphasize that housing and social infrastructure are decisive factors for retaining qualified professionals in Kazakhstan's agricultural regions.
Source: lsm.kz
