Senators have approved a law on issues of science, knowledge-intensive territories, social security, education, healthcare, and military service. The document provides for the creation of a legal framework for the development of science cities and scientific-technological parks, and also introduces new support measures for scientists.
WHAT CHANGES THE LAW PROVIDES
As reported by Head of the Senate Office of the Parliament, Maxim Spotkai, the new norms are aimed at developing the country's scientific potential, supporting scientists, and introducing innovations.
The law creates a legal framework for the development of science cities and scientific-technological parks. They will be used as platforms for implementing scientific developments, developing high-tech industries, and commercialising scientific projects.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES SCIENTIFIC ORGANISATIONS WILL RECEIVE
Scientific organisations will gain equal access to shared-use laboratories. This will allow for more efficient use of research infrastructure and expand opportunities for conducting scientific research.
In addition, the procedure for financing scientific activities is being simplified. Scientific organisations will be able to simultaneously receive funds from several sources, including from deductions made by subsoil users.
WHAT SUPPORT MEASURES ARE PROVIDED FOR SCIENTISTS
A new type of social leave is being introduced for leading scientists working in higher and/or postgraduate education institutions and scientific organisations. This refers to sabbatical leave, which will serve as an additional support measure.
The law also establishes the funding sources for the National Academy of Sciences. Its activities will be financed from budget funds and other sources not prohibited by the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
WHAT WILL CHANGE IN THE SPHERE OF SCHOOL EDUCATION
The legislation establishes the obligation for publishers to replace print runs of school textbooks if errors attributable to the publisher are found in them. The costs for replacing such textbooks will be borne by the publishers themselves.