DOES KAZAKHSTAN NEED TO RATIFY THE TOKYO CONVENTION?

Abstract

Abstract: The article considers the importance of further development of the process of internationalization of higher education in Kazakhstan, in particular, increasing the competitiveness of exports of Kazakhstani educational services through integration into the educational area of the Asia-Pacific region (APAC). It is shown that ratification of the Tokyo Convention will contribute to the implementation of one of the indicators of the Concept of Development of Higher Education and Science in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023 - 2029, specifically increasing the proportion of foreign students. Ratification of the Tokyo Convention will give Kazakhstan the opportunity to strengthen diplomatic relations with the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. It will raise awareness of Southeast Asians about Kazakhstan's education system, higher education institutions, educational programmes, the national system of qualifications of higher education, the process of issuing diplomas and certificates. This will help to improve mutual understanding and trust between the countries, as well as promote wider intercultural exchange of knowledge and experience.

Ratification of the Convention will strengthen the status of Kazakhstani educational institutions in the educational area in the Asia-Pacific region, thereby attracting international students and researchers. Comparative analysis of the Lisbon and Tokyo Conventions on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education shows that joining the Tokyo Convention can make the APAC countries one of the important platforms for the export of Kazakhstani higher education.