Model factories for progress: UNDP Kazakhstan explores Turkish SME excellence

December 11, 2023
Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Levent Kulu

From 6 to 9 December, the United Nations Development Programme in Kazakhstan organized a visit to Ankara and Kayseri, Türkiye to study the experience of the Applied SME Capability Building Centers (Model factories). The trip was attended by representatives of the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Levent Kulu

UNDP Türkiye has implemented several projects to improve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises in the country, and has gained extensive knowledge about the challenges faced by s. The study tour helped exchange experience to subsequently establish model factories in four regions of Kazakhstan: Abay, Ulytau, Zhetysu and Kyzylorda.

The model factory is defined as a centre of excellence for the dissemination of principles of operational excellence through the use of experiential learning techniques. Model factories work towards improving the competitiveness of SMEs by strengthening the infrastructure and skills of owners, managers, and employers through training. In this way, factories contribute to economic growth and the country's prosperity.

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Levent Kulu

In December 2022, UNDP Kazakhstan and the Ministry of National Economy signed a cost-sharing agreement on government co-financing of the UNDP Country Programme for 2021-2025. The programme encompasses four key domains: addressing the challenges related to inequality in regional development and social susceptibility, improving the efficiency of public administration and accountability of organizations, supporting the expansion of the economy and attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and countering the impacts of climate change and natural disasters.  

The allocated funds will be used for the development of the country's three newly formed regions, including Abay, Zhetysu, and Ulytau as well as Kyzylorda, focusing on strengthening local governance and creating opportunities for economic growth, with a view on vulnerable groups such as youth and women. It is expected that joint initiatives in the regions can be commenced in early 2024. 

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Levent Kulu