PARTICIPATION OF KAZAKHSTANI UNIVERSITIES IN GLOBAL RANKINGS:ANALYSIS OF DYNAMICS, PROBLEMS, AND PROSPECTS

Authors

  • Baurzhan Bokayev Center for Research and Evaluation
  • Zulfiya Torebekova Center for Research and Evaluation
  • Nurbek Aizharykov Center for Research and Evaluation

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59787/2413-5488-2025-51-3-%25p

Keywords:

university rankings, Kazakhstan, higher education, internationalization, academic reputation

Abstract

Global university rankings are increasingly used as tools for assessing university effectiveness and shaping educational policies. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the participation of Kazakhstani universities in the international rankings QS, THE, and ARWU. The study reveals both positive dynamics and persistent institutional barriers for Kazakhstani universities.

The research methodology includes quantitative and qualitative analysis of university positions, as well as comparative analysis. The findings show that the main problems with the global positions of Kazakhstani universities are related to insufficient scientific productivity, limited internationalization, and a disconnect between public policy and institutional practice. Recommendations are provided for the development of the research ecosystem and the transformation of academic management mechanisms.

Author Biographies

  • Baurzhan Bokayev , Center for Research and Evaluation

    PhD, Professor, Center for Research and Evaluation, Astana, Kazakhstan, e-mail: baurzhanbokayev@gmail.com, ORCID 0000-0002-1037-7085 

  • Zulfiya Torebekova , Center for Research and Evaluation

    PhD, Center for Research and Evaluation, Astana, Kazakhstan, e-mail:  zulfiya1978@mail.ru, ORCID 009-0008-9583-4177  (corresponding author)

  • Nurbek Aizharykov, Center for Research and Evaluation

    Member of the research group, Center for Research and Evaluation, Astana, Kazakhstan, e-mail:  nurbek.aizharykov@gmail.com

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Published

2025-09-30

Issue

Section

ISSUES OF QUALITY ASSURANCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION