The challenge of management education and development in Kazakhstan : Opportunities and threats in a changing environment

Kazakhstan is endowed with rich deposits of minerals, massive farmlands and a population of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Its independence in 1991 and adoption of a market‐oriented economy have brought new opportunities and challenges for efficient utilization of its abundant resources. The development process has been hampered by the low number of adequately qualified managers and business professionals who are familiar with the operation of a free‐market system. Reports the findings of field research in nine management training centres throughout Kazakhstan and examines their approaches to training qualified managers and business executives for public and private enterprises. Examines areas of strengths and weaknesses and offers suggestions for improvement.