Innovative education ecosystem as a factor in managing the labour potential of rural areas

Abstract

In the context of Kazakhstan's economic modernisation, the formation of an innovative education ecosystem as a key tool for managing the labour potential of rural areas is becoming particularly important. The problem under investigation is the continuing shortage of skilled personnel in rural areas, especially in the agricultural, engineering, technical and medical fields, which limits the potential for sustainable socio-economic development in these regions.

The aim of this work is to determine the role of an innovative educational environment in the development and effective use of the labour potential of rural areas in Kazakhstan. The study uses statistical and comparative analysis methods, as well as systemic and structural-functional approaches. The empirical basis consists of data on employment by age and education, the number of technical and vocational education (TVE) institutions, the number of students and higher education institutions, which made it possible to identify trends and imbalances in the formation of human resources.

The results of the study showed that the number of students in the vocational education system is growing, but the proportion of rural youth receiving vocational education is declining. The age structure of the labour force is characterised by ageing, and the proportion of specialists with higher education remains low. These factors point to the need to update educational programmes, develop dual training and expand employer participation in staff training.

The practical significance of the study lies in the formulation of proposals to strengthen the innovative ecosystem of education, including the integration of science, business and local authorities. The implementation of such measures will improve the quality of human capital, reduce youth migration from rural areas and ensure the sustainable development of rural regions of Kazakhstan based on innovation and digitalisation of the agricultural sector.