Kazakhstan’s People’s Council Proposes Youth Movement with 126 Members

Kazakhstan’s People’s Council has proposed establishing a youth movement that would initially bring together 126 young people from across the country. The initiative was announced during a national youth camp in Petropavl attended by Council Chairman Yerlan Koshanov, according to a press release.

The proposed movement would pair each young participant with a member of the People’s Council under a “reverse mentoring” model, encouraging cooperation between generations and giving young people a greater role in public decision-making.

Speaking at the event, titled “A New National Identity: Youth and Civic Responsibility,” Koshanov emphasized that the movement should focus on practical results rather than formal meetings and conferences.

Its priorities would include supporting young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET), expanding access to vocational training and employment, and promoting digital skills. The Council also plans to extend Astana’s JOLTAP employment support initiative to other regions.

Other proposed activities include preventing drug abuse, gambling addiction and online fraud, encouraging volunteering, and involving young people in environmental and community projects.

Koshanov said the People’s Council could also consider proposals from young participants for inclusion in draft legislation through its right of legislative initiative.

The event highlighted regional digital development in North Kazakhstan. According to the press release, 14 IT centers have opened at district and village levels, helping residents develop digital skills and use artificial intelligence tools.

Participants also discussed education and international cooperation, including a dual-degree program between Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona. The program's first 30 graduates received degrees from both institutions in July 2026.

The proposed youth movement is intended to provide a platform for young Kazakhstanis to contribute to national development and participate more actively in public life.