LocationsUNDP launches programme to develop entrepreneurial skills and accelerate creative startups for youth in Mangystau region
September 5, 2024
Launch ceremony commencing.
On September 5, at Yessenov University in Aktau, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, and the Mangystau region akimat an educational programme aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills and accelerating startups within the creative industries for the youth of the Mangystau region was officially launched. This initiative is part of the UNDP project funded by the Government of Japan and aimed at promoting resilient communities to prevent violent extremism in Central Asia.
The launch event brought together over 150 young participants from Aktau, Zhanaozen, and Beyneu, alongside representatives from local businesses, civil society, and government bodies.
Participants are listening to the speakers.
In her welcoming remarks, Ulzhan Zhamalbekova, Acting Director of the Creative Industries Department at the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan highlighted the national efforts to support the creative industries:
“We are currently working on legislative amendments to foster a supportive environment for creative industries. The Ministry is also planning to establish a Creative Industries Support Fund, which will systematically promote the development of this sector. Creative hubs are gradually opening across Kazakhstan, and we are delighted to see the Mangystau region actively engaging in this process.”
Ulzhan Zhamalbekova, Acting Director of the Creative Industries Department at the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan is delivering a speech.
Aigul Maratkyzy, Director of the Creative Industries Center at Almaty Management University (AlmaU), emphasized the distinctive nature and benefits of creative industries today:
“The creative economy transcends any single industry. It spans diverse sectors, from film and music to software and urban design. This economy is driven by ideas, innovation, and creativity, where human imagination is the core asset.”
The programme participants from Aktau, Zhanaozen, and Beyneu will undergo a month-long training programme focused on creative entrepreneurship. The curriculum covers key topics such as business plan development, idea pitching, digital marketing tools, financial management, intellectual property protection, and integrating technology and innovation into the creative industries.
Erkebulan Kurishbayev, General Producer of QARA STUDIOS is delivering a speech.
After the programme, participants will develop their startups and present growth strategies for existing business ventures at a final event, where a panel of judges and potential investors will evaluate their work.
