Honoring Over 400 Experts Celebrated on Water Household Workers Day
## Kazakhstan Takes Steps to Boost Water Industry Professionals' Status and Conditions
In a notable move, the Kazakhstan government has embarked on a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the status and improving working conditions for water industry specialists. The focus of these efforts is to address the country's water security challenges while fostering a more conducive environment for these essential workers.
### Recent Measures
The establishment of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation in 2023 marked a significant step forward. This ministry has been tasked with overseeing reforms and infrastructure projects in the water sector, demonstrating the government's commitment to prioritizing water security and management [2][3].
Accompanying this move, Kazakhstan adopted a new Water Code, a key part of broader efforts to modernize water governance and infrastructure. This legal framework supports more efficient water management practices [1][3].
In addition, the government is investing in major infrastructure projects, such as the construction of 42 new reservoirs and the refurbishment of 14,000 kilometers of irrigation canals. These projects aim to improve water supply and conservation [2].
Digital technologies are also being harnessed to monitor and conserve water resources. Over 3,500 kilometers of canals have been digitized for precise flow tracking [2].
### Education and Training
Education and training are key components of these efforts. The Kazakh National University of Water Management and Irrigation has been established, with more than 500 students studying on budgetary funds. Additionally, over 120 industry workers are receiving additional education in China to exchange experience and improve skills [1].
### Social Conditions and Recognition
The government has taken steps to improve the social conditions and recognition of water industry specialists. Wages have increased by 25% in 2024, and further increases are planned [1]. A ceremony was held in Astana to honour Water Workers' Day, during which various awards and recognitions were bestowed upon the industry's professionals [4].
A total of 442 specialists in the water industry were awarded this year, including the "Su sharushylygyñ üzdigi" badge given to 97 water industry specialists, and the "Su sharushylygyñ ardageri" badge given to 24 water industry specialists [5]. State awards were received by 55 individuals, while letters of appreciation were given to 89 specialists in the water industry, and honorary certificates were awarded to 177 water industry workers [5].
### Salary Increases and International Cooperation
Amendments have been made to the 'Natural Monopolies' law, which will increase water workers' salaries by an average of 35-50% [1]. Kazakhstan is also engaging in regional and international cooperation to address water security challenges. This includes promoting the creation of a Water and Energy Consortium with other Central Asian countries and participating in international forums like the One Water summit [3].
These measures underscore Kazakhstan's commitment to enhancing the status and improving working conditions for water industry specialists while addressing broader water security challenges. The government's actions have contributed to significant progress in the elevation of the status of those responsible for the country's water security [5].
The Kazakhstan government's efforts to enhance the status and improve working conditions for water industry specialists extend to the finance sector, as salaries have increased by 25% in 2024 and further increases are planned, with amendments to the 'Natural Monopolies' law set to increase water workers' salaries by an average of 35-50%. Additionally, the government's cooperation with China for the education and training of industry workers is a clear indication of their commitment to fostering a strong business environment within the water industry.
