Kazakhstan has significantly improved its position in the World Bank’s Human Capital Index Plus (HCI+), rising by 13 places to rank 42nd out of 161 countries by the end of 2025. The index evaluates human capital development, including health, education, and workforce skills, all of which directly influence economic growth and investment attractiveness.
Charles McLean, founder of Borderless Consulting Group, shared his assessment of the factors behind this progress in an interview with Inbusiness.kz.
According to McLean, Kazakhstan’s rise reflects not only quantitative improvements but also qualitative changes in the country’s socio-economic landscape.
“Kazakhstan’s rise by 13 positions is a highly positive and significant signal for the country’s socio-economic development, primarily driven by reforms implemented by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev,” he said.
He noted that improved indicators point to the emergence of a healthier, better-educated, and more skilled workforce, contributing to higher productivity and supporting sustainable long-term growth. Stronger positions in international rankings also enhance investor confidence and reinforce economic resilience.
McLean identified two main drivers of progress: education and healthcare.
In education, investment has increased at all levels from preschool to higher education. Improvements in teacher training, the quality of school education, and the alignment of national testing systems with international standards have contributed to higher skill levels across the population.
Positive changes are also evident in the healthcare system. Enhanced medical infrastructure, expanded preventive programs, and improved access to healthcare services have contributed to rising life expectancy and lower infant mortality.
McLean also highlighted Kazakhstan’s shift toward a more integrated approach to human capital development. This includes the digitalization of educational institutions and the expansion of vocational training programs.
Additional emphasis is being placed on developing professional skills, delivering both short-term employment gains and long-term improvements in labor productivity.
“If the current course is maintained, Kazakhstan can not only strengthen its position but also become one of the leaders among emerging markets in terms of human capital development,” McLean said.
Given current trends, he assessed further improvements in Kazakhstan’s position in the HCI+ ranking to be realistic. Continued investment in human capital is expected to drive productivity growth, improve living standards, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
