PRESIDENTIAL YOUTH PERSONNEL RESERVE OF KAZAKHSTAN: EVOLUTION AND PROSPECTS FOR MERITOCRATIC PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Drawing on administrative microdata and official reports, the article presents the first comprehensive evaluation study of Kazakhstan’s Presidential Youth Personnel Reserve as an instrument of meritocratic renewal within the post-Soviet public administration system. It analyzes the demographic composition, multi-stage selection procedures, and career outcomes of three cohorts (2019, 2021, 2023) comprising 400 participants. Descriptive statistics indicate a significant increase in competitiveness, while gender and regional disparities persist. Logistic regression demonstrates that foreign education and prior managerial experience substantially increase the likelihood of appointments to central government bodies. A comparative analysis with international programs (Fast Stream, Presidential Management Fellows, Administrative Service Singapore) reveals a high level of competitiveness within the PYPR alongside limitations in mentoring and rotational mechanisms. The SWOT analysis highlights the program’s strengths while identifying risks related to a narrowing selection funnel and decreasing inclusivity. The recommendations aim to enhance regional representation, gender-sensitive recruitment, structured mentorship, and transparency of career pathways.

It should be specifically emphasized that the scientific work was carried out independently by the author. Artificial intelligence was not used in preparing the main text, analyzing data, or generating conclusions. In accordance with paragraphs 5 and 5-2 of the Rules for the Awarding of Degrees, AI technologies were used solely for minor technical language corrections, which do not affect the scientific content or authorship.