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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has voiced strong concerns regarding financial irregularities and criminal activities within Kazakhstan's science sector, stating that advancements in research must yield tangible benefits for the nation.

Speaking at a meeting with the scientific community at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Tokayev criticized the perceived lack of practical outcomes from numerous scientific projects.

Ineffective Innovation Fund

The President pointed out that despite new mandates for the Innovation Development Fund, its operations often resemble mere "imitation of activity." He stressed the need for a practical examination of its actual effectiveness.

"Why should we deceive ourselves? It seems like science exists, but it doesn't yield practical results. I was informed that out of over 3,000 applied scientific projects, only 193 have produced commercially viable results, with just 29 projects reaching the market. This means the industrial impact and return are very low, and this is the reality," Tokayev stated.

Mismanagement of Funds and Land

Tokayev also highlighted that land allocated for modern production facilities remains unused. He noted that the Science Fund, despite significant errors in its work, has not only failed to return state funds but has also not approached law enforcement agencies.

"As if nothing happened. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have uncovered facts of transferring grant money to employees of the National Center for Scientific and Technical Expertise and the Science Fund. As a result of the investigation, 11 criminal cases are currently being investigated. It is very shameful to talk about this on the eve of Nauryz, especially when it concerns scientists whom I greatly respect. However, the constitutional principle of Law and Order applies to those in the field of science as well," said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Accountability and Digitalization

According to the Head of State, this unfortunate situation, which tarnishes the reputation of the scientific community, stems from unclear responsibilities, weak oversight, and a low level of process digitalization. He emphasized that all scientific developments should be applied in nature and actively integrated into the real economy.

"Of course, there are successful examples in the development of Kazakh science; there is no need to throw ashes on our heads. But if we want to achieve success, we must learn from failures. The truth must be told. I am resolutely against embellishing the truth, but at the same time, I do not accept empty talk, fanfare, and false reports of victory," declared the President.

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