Astana, December 27, 2025 – The Europe Today: An extended meeting was held at the Astana city administration under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balaeva, with the participation of city officials and members of the Public Council, according to primeminister.kz. The session focused on the social sector and the implementation of the President’s directives aimed at improving the quality of life in the capital.
Population Growth and Urban Planning
Astana Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek highlighted that the city’s steady population growth is creating new demands on urban infrastructure and necessitates proactive planning. As of November 1, 2025, Astana’s population reached 1,622,245, an increase of 93,542 residents since the start of the year. Of this growth, 17,265 came from natural increase and 76,277 from migration. Annual population growth stands at 6.12%, with migration inflows of around 100,000 people per year, placing additional pressure on healthcare, education, employment, and social support systems.
Healthcare Development
Special attention was paid to healthcare. Astana currently has 277 medical organizations, with building wear at 14.7% and equipment availability at 82.4%. Staff shortages remain a significant challenge. Birth rates have increased by 45% over the past decade, creating the need for additional maternity and perinatal facilities.
Education and Human Capital
Minister of Enlightenment Zhuldyz Suleimenova noted that over 300,000 students are enrolled in approximately 200 schools. In 2025, 272 billion tenge was allocated to private schools, raising issues of transparency and quality. The meeting emphasized early childhood and primary education as key foundations for learning motivation and social stability.
In higher education, 13 universities host over 105,000 students, though a mismatch persists between supply and demand: there are too many graduates in the humanities, while shortages remain in engineering, IT, medical, and teaching fields.
Social Support and Employment
The economically active population exceeds 750,000, with over 120,000 people receiving social support. In 2025, more than 42,000 residents were employed through city programs.
Sports and Recreation
Astana has over 800 sports facilities, with 60% privately owned, supporting the city’s growing population and recreational needs.
Conclusion
Officials at the meeting emphasized that Astana’s rapid growth requires quality governance, systematic decision-making, and sustainable development strategies to ensure the well-being of its residents and to meet the increasing demands on urban infrastructure and social services.
