Alma Kudebayeva, Ph.D., Associate Professor of the Department of Economics, has been named a laureate of the national “Best Researcher – 2025” award established by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In 2025, the competition attracted 358 applications across seven scientific fields, and following a rigorous selection process, 50 researchers nationwide were honored.
Dr. Kudebayeva’s research focuses on the determinants of subjective well-being, social capital, poverty, and social assistance policies. In her co-authored work with Dina Sharipova, the study examined well-being dynamics in Central Asia. The findings revealed that subjective well-being declined in Kazakhstan and increased in Kyrgyzstan between 2011 and 2018. However, analysis of more recent data indicates that life satisfaction in Kazakhstan has improved after 2018.
The research identified several critical drivers of subjective well-being, including financial satisfaction, freedom of choice, and social capital — measured through social participation, interpersonal trust, and shared norms and values. A disaggregated analysis further demonstrated that the decline in well-being in Kazakhstan during 2011–2018 was not universal across the population, with differing trends observed among financially satisfied and dissatisfied groups.
The study provides valuable insights for policymakers by highlighting areas that may contribute to improving life satisfaction and social resilience.
More details about the award results:
https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/sci/press/news/details/1135337?lang=ru
This recognition underscores the strong research performance of KIMEP University faculty and the university’s continued commitment to academic excellence.