Paper #1: Boom Time in Astana: The Construction Frenzy of Social Facilities
Over fifteen schools and eleven kindergartens will be constructed in Astana during this year.
In the vibrant heart of Kazakhstan, Astana, the city's head, Jenis Kasymbek, is turning up the heat on social infrastructure development. He's been singing the praises of the ongoing construction of schools, kindergartens, medical facilities, and more on his Instagram page.
"That's right, folks! We're all about the social facilities here in Astana. Think schools, kindergartens, school palaces, you name it. Ever heard Astana's kindergarten construction stopped in 2017? Well, we've picked up the pace since, and it's about time! We've spent the last few years tidying up the land plots, getting our engineering networks sorted, and laying the groundwork for the infrastructure these kids deserve," Jenis shared.
According to the big cheese himself, he's been hitting the pavement with Murat Abenov, a Mazhilis deputy, to check out the progress of several under-construction social facilities.
"We're looking at commissioning 11 kindergartens this year! That's 5 at our own expense, 4 from private investors, a sneaky one on the first floors of residential buildings, and a modernized baby-sitter hangout. All told, that's over 2,800 new spots for the kids," he said.
As for schools, the city is gearing up to open 15 more for the new academic year. Last year, they managed to crank out 24 educational institutions, with 16 of them being part of the swanky "Comfortable School" national project.
"Don't think we're only chasing social infrastructure, though. We've got our eyes on the engineering stuff, too. Case in point, we've built gas boiler stations, a drinking water station, an "Arai" electric substation, a "Tельман" GTS, and more. That way, we can keep the city heated, hydrated, and powered," Jenis concluded.
Background
Astana is in the thick of a social facilities boom, driven by both public and private investment. Part of a broader national agenda, the city is also pioneering projects such as Alatau City and embracing technological advancements, setting the stage for a future where innovation merges with tradition.
School front
The construction boom has extended to the school scene, with 24 new educational institutions erected in Astana last year. For the upcoming academic year, an additional 15 schools will open their doors.
Kindergarten rush
This year, there is a plan to commission no less than 11 new kindergartens around Astana, providing some 2,800 new spots for the growing tots. Among these are facilities funded through the local budget and private investments.
Medical makeover
While Astana has been tight-lipped about specific medical facilities in the pipeline, Kazakhstan as a whole is seeing investment in healthcare infrastructure. For instance, a medical outpatient clinic was recently unveiled in the Akmola Region, funded by repatriated assets.
Cash and investments
The development of social facilities in Astana is being fueled by public and private funds, as well as repatriated assets. These funds are not only revitalizing Astana but also other regions in Kazakhstan.
The big picture
Astana is part of a broader national vision, which includes initiatives like technological advancements, urban development projects, and an emphasis on international cooperation. This modernization agenda, embodied by the Astana International Forum, hints at a future where Astana's social facilities will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and partnerships.
In the midst of Astana's social facilities boom, the focus is not solely on infrastructure but also on education-and-self-development, with plans to open 15 new schools this academic year, expanding on the 24 educational institutions built last year.Education is essential, and learning opportunities are being prioritized alongside infrastructure development in Astana; for instance, 11 new kindergartens are projected to commence operations this year, providing approximately 2,800 new learning spaces for children.
