THE ROLE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN DEVELOPING HUMAN CAPITAL FOR THE RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR

Abstract

In the context of the global climate agenda and Kazakhstan’s national commitments to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, the development of human capital for the renewable energy (RE) sector has become a strategic imperative. This article examines the readiness of the higher education (HE) system to support this transition. The methodological approach is based on an analysis of institutional strategies and academic programs, as well as a comparative assessment of models employed by leading RE countries.

The findings indicate that the HE system demonstrates significant strategic adaptability to emerging market needs, yet encounters a number of challenges associated with managing a hybrid energy mix. The structural heterogeneity within academic programs (with the dominance of traditional disciplines) reflects a pragmatic approach to risk management. A key limitation of readiness is the qualitative gap in research and development (R&D): current efforts remain largely focused on the adoption of imported technologies, slowing Kazakhstan’s progress toward achieving technological sovereignty. Furthermore, the geographic concentration of expertise creates risks of regional imbalance, underscoring the need for a policy of regional specialization. It is concluded that transitioning from potential to actual readiness requires a structural reorientation of HE, deeper integration within the “Triple Helix” model, and a shift in R&D priorities from academic metrics toward commercialization and the generation of domestic innovations. These measures will enhance the resilience of the national energy sector and strengthen Kazakhstan’s ESG performance.