The development of sports and physical culture has been identified by the Head of State as one of the key priorities of public policy. The focus is on improving the nation’s health, expanding the reach of mass and youth sports, and enhancing Kazakhstan’s international image through sporting achievements.

To implement the President’s instructions, a comprehensive and systematic set of measures is being carried out nationwide. Particular attention is given to creating conditions for regular physical activity through youth sports schools, local playgrounds, and specialized clubs.

To improve access to sports sections for children, a per capita voucher funding mechanism has been introduced. This allows parents to freely choose sports clubs and activities without additional expenses — all costs are covered by the state budget.

As of the end of 2024, 41.4% of the population is engaged in regular physical activity and sports. Among children and adolescents aged 4 to 17, this figure has reached 30.4%, or over 5.1 million individuals.

At the same time, large-scale projects are being implemented to expand sports infrastructure. In 2024, 90 new sports facilities were commissioned across the country — 61 in rural areas and 29 in cities and district centers. Additionally, 32 more facilities were completed.

This year, the construction of several major facilities is expected to be completed: a rowing canal in Turkestan, a football stadium in Kyzylorda, and the National University of Sports in Astana. The new university will serve as a flagship institution for the training of highly qualified coaches, managers, sports psychologists, and researchers in high-performance sports.

In parallel, measures are being taken to elevate the status and professional motivation of sports specialists. Starting in 2026, coaches who pass qualification testing and work in accordance with national standards will receive a 30% bonus to their base salary.

In line with the President’s instructions, salaries of sports education professionals have increased annually by 25% since 2020, resulting in a cumulative growth of 100% by 2024. Additionally, since 2022, the base salaries of trainers, methodologists, instructors, and other specialists in physical culture and sports have been gradually increased.

A significant milestone in the modernization of the sector was the entry into force on June 16, 2025, of a new Law developed by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The legislation aims to strengthen the vertical management structure, improve financing mechanisms, and simplify the regulatory framework. Limits have been introduced on funding for team clubs, a list of priority sports has been approved, the legal status of national and regional federations has been clarified, and a system of rotation for heads of sports organizations has been established. A separate provision secures the rights of accompanying persons for athletes with Group I disabilities.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports continues to systematically implement all reforms within the framework of state policy aimed at the comprehensive development of the sports sector and strengthening its international potential.