Social-economic risks of outbound academic mobility of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has demonstrated significant achievements in the globalization of education and academic mobility. The country’s accession to the Bologna Process marked a turning point in internationalization and mobility. However, such active cooperation between students and universities around the world also raises concerns about the risks and implications for Kazakhstan’s educational security. Academic mobility in Kazakhstan is perceived positively, as the goals, objectives and results of the program are supported by students, universities and the scientific community. According to the authors of the study, a critical approach to assessing economic outcomes in the scientific and public spheres is also necessary when calculating the consequences of academic mobility for Kazakhstan. The research conducted by the authors shows the growing desire of Kazakhstani students to study at foreign universities. The focus group survey showed that academic mobility and the availability of international education significantly increase the desire of young people to study and subsequently move abroad. Modern global scientific research on the impact of academic mobility programs and outcomes also demonstrates the risks and dangers of losing the most talented and ambitious young people. The problem of “brain drain” is significantly exacerbated by uncontrolled academic mobility. The lack of a government-sponsored objective cost analysis and conclusions drawn from student academic mobility programs makes it impossible to assess the benefits of these educational programs for the country and its economy. Further economic analysis is needed, assessing the costs in terms of the economic impact and benefits of academic mobility programs for the country and society.

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