(6 January 2026 | Source: Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan)
The first cabinet meeting of the new year began with Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov issuing specific instructions based on the Kazakh President's programme interview. Key emphasis was placed on the social sphere and the need to strengthen oversight of budget spending.
SOCIAL OBLIGATIONS REMAIN
Speaking at the meeting, Olzhas Bektenov stressed that the social sphere remains an unconditional priority for the state. According to him, all social obligations will be honoured in full in accordance with the Head of State's instructions.
The Prime Minister noted that a significant part of the President's programme interview was devoted specifically to social issues.
REVIEW OF PRIVATE SECTOR SUBSIDIES
At the same time, the head of government drew attention to the need to review the policy of subsidising private schools and private medical organisations.
According to the Prime Minister, cases of excessive funding have been recorded in this area, and fraudulent schemes are widespread.
In this regard, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Finance have been instructed within a week to submit specific proposals to address the identified issues.
COMBATING FRAUD IN PAYMENTS
A separate instruction was addressed to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population. Together with the local executive bodies, the department must devise measures aimed at preventing fraud in the allocation of social benefits and payments.
Details of possible changes and specific control mechanisms were not specified in the meeting materials.
It will be recalled that previously, teachers at the private school Cosmo International School in Almaty reported months-long delays in salary payments. According to the teachers, they have not received money for hours worked since October, despite regular promises from management to 'pay tomorrow'.