SDG 17: International Partnership and Sustainable Development: A Guest Lecture Based on the World Bank Report

On November 12, 2025, the Higher School of Economics and Business of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a guest lecture entitled “Europe and Central Asia Economic Update: Jobs and Prosperity”, focusing on employment and well-being in the context of sustainable development.

The event was organized by the Department of Economics with the support of the World Bank, within the framework of the research project AP23489032, and in line with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 17 — “Partnerships for the Goals.”

The guest lecture was delivered by Ivan Torre, Senior Economist at the Office of the Chief Economist for Europe and Central Asia at the World Bank. He presented the key findings of the World Bank’s economic report “Europe and Central Asia Economic Update: Jobs and Prosperity (Fall 2025)”, placing special emphasis on socio-economic trends in Kazakhstan.

According to the speaker, Kazakhstan has demonstrated steady economic growth and increasing employment in recent years. However, achieving long-term and inclusive development requires enhancing labor productivity, increasing investment in human capital, and improving the quality of education and skills. These areas were identified as essential pillars of sustainable development.

The guest lecture was held in an open dialogue format and attracted significant interest from master’s and doctoral students, as well as faculty members. The event contributed to strengthening partnerships between the academic community and international organizations and provided an opportunity for a meaningful exchange of views on the future of Kazakhstan’s socio-economic development.