This year, the regional Departments of Passenger Transport and Highways across Kazakhstan have significantly intensified their efforts to advance the professional development of their staff.
The trend is driven by several factors: the continuous renewal of regulatory documents, the introduction of new technologies in road construction and maintenance, as well as recent legislative amendments mandating professional upskilling.
“For example, professional development programs at KazdorNII now encompass more than 35 specialized courses, covering areas such as pricing and cost estimation, quality control of road construction materials, road diagnostics and certification, traffic safety, as well as road design and operation. These courses are in high demand not only among representatives of government agencies, but also among contractors,” the Kazakhstan Road Research Institute (KazdorNII) noted.
The process is especially active in the regions. To date, employees of the Departments of Passenger Transport and Highways in Aktobe, Kostanay, and Karaganda regions have successfully completed training programs. By the end of the year, around 100 additional specialists are expected to undergo training and receive official certificates.
“Each year the road sector becomes increasingly complex and technology-driven. We are introducing international practices such as Superpave, digital databases, and new standards, and specialists must be fully prepared to apply them in practice. Professional training is not only a legal requirement, but also a guarantee of road quality,” KazdorNII emphasized.
A striking example is the introduction of the Superpave technology. In 2025, six road sections were built using this method, with three more pilot projects planned for 2026. Their successful implementation requires a qualified workforce trained in the latest methodologies.
Digitalization is also reshaping the industry. The Unified Database of Road Construction Materials and New Technologies, developed by KazdorNII, has been made mandatory for all market participants. Furthermore, under Order No. 278 of the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dated August 26, 2025, professional development courses have become obligatory. Employees are now required to undergo training at least once every three years.
The growing number of participants in these programs confirms that professional development is becoming the new norm. Akimats play a key role in this transformation, ensuring systematic training and building the human capital that directly determines the quality and safety of Kazakhstan’s roads.