The Role of Science and Education in the Formation of National Human Capital: Kazakhstani Experience

Background/Objectives: This article presents the theoretical analysis and historical development of the concept of human capital. Methods: Attempts at a comprehensive study of theoretical and applied aspects of education in the formation of national human capital, including comparative legal aspect or the science of civil procedure and educational law, had not been previously undertaken. Findings: The article has illustrated various scientific and philosophical thoughts in relation to the concept and the role of human capital in the formation and development of a national economy. The effective practice of the global leading countries in the formation of national human capital was considered and the state policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan on building human capital was described. Main factors influencing the human capital formation such as higher education were identified and also urgent problems of national higher education and science were highlighted, namely, the issues of national higher education at a time of globalization and integration; issues of formation and development of the staff scientists at universities and research institutes. Additionally, the challenges of engagement of commercial rating organizations to the education institutions, lack of the system for degreed academic staff training were discussed in this article. Applications/Improvements: This article provides evidence-based recommendations for the improvement of national science and the development of human capital.