Kazakh Diplomas to Gain Recognition in Asia-Pacific Following UNESCO Convention Ratification
Kazakhstan will see its university diplomas recognized in China, Japan, South Korea, and other Asia-Pacific countries after the Mazhilis (lower chamber of Parliament) ratified the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education on Nov. 19. The convention was originally adopted in Tokyo in 2011.
The ratification is expected to significantly enhance academic and professional mobility for Kazakh graduates across one of the world’s most dynamic regions, reported the Mazhilis press service. The convention establishes a framework to simplify the recognition of university degrees, diplomas, and other qualifications, promoting transparency and fairness. Participating states commit to recognizing qualifications from other member countries unless substantial differences exist between educational programs.
A key provision of the convention requires the establishment of national information centers in each member state to provide verified data on higher education systems, accredited institutions, and qualification standards. These centers are designed to facilitate smoother cooperation and strengthen trust among countries.
Kazakhstan, while joining the convention, entered reservations on certain provisions, particularly regarding the recognition of qualifications obtained through non-traditional learning models or incomplete academic programs, citing national education standards. With Kazakhstan’s accession, the Tokyo Convention now includes 12 member states: Afghanistan, Armenia, Australia, China, Fiji, the Holy See, Japan, Mongolia, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, and Türkiye.
Photo credit: egov.kz
