(24 February 2026 | Source: press service of the Zhambyl Regional Court)
A graduate who studied at the expense of the local budget is obliged to return 1.7 million tenge after refusing mandatory work placement. This decision was made by the court of the Talas District of the Zhambyl Region.
HOW THE OBLIGATION AROSE
According to the court, in 2018, a tripartite agreement for the provision of educational services at the expense of the local budget was concluded between the Education Department of Astana, the university, and the citizen.
Under the terms of the agreement, the student was required, after completing their studies, to work for at least 3 years in a position directed by the local executive body. In the event of non-compliance with this obligation, reimbursement of tuition costs was stipulated.
EDUCATION AND REFUSAL OF WORK PLACEMENT
The defendant studied the specialisation of “Geography” from 2021 to 2025 and received a higher education diploma.
However, after graduation, the obligation to take up employment as directed by the authorised body was not fulfilled. The case materials do not specify the reason for the refusal to complete the work placement.
HOW MUCH WAS REQUIRED TO BE REPAID
According to the educational institution’s records, 4.6 million tenge was allocated for the training, of which:
- 1.7 million tenge — cost of tuition;
- 2.8 million tenge — paid stipend.
The claimant sought to recover only the cost of tuition, excluding the stipend.
During the court hearing, the defendant acknowledged the debt and requested the possibility of repaying it in instalments.
COURT DECISION
The court found the claimant’s demands lawful and justified.
By the court’s decision, 1.7 million tenge was recovered from the defendant in favour of the Education Department of Astana, along with state fees payable to the state budget.
The decision has not entered into legal force.