More Non-Kazakh Families Choose Kazakh-Language Education for Children

As first-grade enrollment continues across Kazakhstan, a notable dynamic is shaping the country’s educational landscape: an increasing number of non-Kazakh parents are choosing Kazakh-medium instruction for their children. Out of the estimated 380,000 children expected to enter primary school this academic year, roughly 320,000 - or 84% of the projected total - have already completed their registration. According to the Ministry of Education, this growing interest from diverse ethnic backgrounds reflects a broader societal shift toward integrating into the state language from an early age.

The overwhelming majority of families are opting for Kazakh-medium classes, which account for more than 71% of all current enrollments. Meanwhile, Russian-language classes represent just over 26%, with other languages making up the remaining 2.5%. Significantly, more than 2,000 children from non-Kazakh ethnic groups have enrolled directly in Kazakh-medium classrooms. In terms of school types, state institutions will accommodate roughly 296,000 of these students, while private schools account for nearly 23,000. Additionally, schools have accepted nearly 4,000 children with special educational needs.

Demographic factors and high birth rates continue to drive the highest numbers of new students in specific regions. Turkestan Region leads the nation with over 50,000 first-graders, followed by Almaty Region with more than 35,000. Among major urban centers, Astana accounts for 33,000 incoming pupils, Almaty city for over 31,000, and Shymkent for more than 29,000.

The enrollment process will proceed in stages through August 31st. Digital adoption among parents remains exceptionally high, with around 84% submitting their documents online via the eGov.kz portal or the eGov Mobile app, while others complete registration directly at their selected schools.