In 2006, with support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, some preliminary surveys were carried out with a view to starting up SYSLAB-based jobseeker programmes in Kazakhstan. We were well received and met with the support of both the Astana central authorities and the Almaty regional authorities. The United Nation's Development Programme (UNDP), our partner in many countries, also backed the project together with the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

As a result of this, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs agreed to support a three-year project for the transfer of SYSLAB technology to the Kazakhstani authorities.

The first SYSLAB centre started in Almaty in October 2007, with 20 participants. This will be expanded to 40 in 2009, with a new project starting in Shymkent in southern Kazakhstan at the same time. A third project will be set up in autumn 2009.

The aims of the project are:

1. To demonstrate that the SYSLAB method can be used in Kazakhstan
2. To transfer operational expertise and technology to Kazakhstani authorities, so that the method can form part of their labour market policy
3. To find suitable permanent employment for around 300 people and create some 20 new businesses between 2007 and 2010
4. To take part in and contribute to network building and trade between towns where SYSLAB is represented, especially in former Soviet states.

Links to partners:

OSCE Kazakhstan