Contemporary Issues in Enhancing the Innovation Capability of Universities in Kazakhstan

The article discusses the current problems and prospects for the development of the innovative capability of universities in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The need to develop the innovative capability of a higher education organization is associated with trends and challenges of the last decade related to education as a socially significant part of the national economy. Today, Kazakhstani universities require measures to become centers of innovation activity and a driving force for innovative development in the regional and Kazakhstan economy. The methodological basis of the article includes an expert survey method to identify barriers to increasing the innovation capability of universities. Experts from 11 national universities participated in the survey, which included the first heads of universities and heads of departments for the development of science and innovation. The results of the survey analysis showed that the largest number of respondents noted insufficient funding, limited collaboration with the industry, as well as bureaucratic obstacles. The materials of the article can be used for further development of measures to enhance innovation activity in higher education and increase its competitiveness.