Internal Academic Mobility of Students in Kazakhstan: Institutional Practices and Strategic Guidelines

Abstract

In the context of ongoing higher education reforms in Kazakhstan, student academic mobility is viewed as one of the key tools for improving the quality of training and fostering academic partnerships between universities. Particular attention is paid to the development of internal academic mobility as the most realistic and accessible form of inter-university cooperation within the country.

This article presents the results of theoretical and empirical analysis of the current state of internal academic mobility among students. It explores institutional mechanisms used in Kazakhstani universities, the regulatory framework governing mobility, and the implementation practices of exchange programs. Key barriers and challenges are identified, including inconsistencies in curricula, difficulties in credit recognition, limited financial and informational resources, low student motivation, and underdeveloped digital infrastructure.

Based on a review of current educational strategies, the authors propose priority directions for enhancing academic mobility: strengthening institutional cooperation among universities, introducing a unified digital mobility platform, standardizing academic requirements, and providing incentives (grants, academic benefits, career opportunities) for student participation. Special attention is paid to the role of internal mobility in fostering a unified educational space, building students’ social capital, promoting regional integration, and enhancing the competitiveness of Kazakhstani universities.