UNICEF, the Bureau of National Statistics, and the Akimat of Ulytau Region Discuss Key Findings of the MICS Survey

Ulytau, 11 August 2025 — The Akimat of Ulytau Region hosted an official meeting with representatives from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The visit was part of a special UNICEF mission aimed at strengthening partnerships and advancing child rights, sustainable development, and youth policy priorities in the region.

UNICEF expressed its appreciation to the Ulytau regional administration for its strong support and effective coordination during the implementation of the 2024 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS). The survey provided unique and up-to-date data on the situation of women, children, and youth in the region — including access to healthcare and education, living conditions, nutrition, and protection.

According to MICS findings, Ulytau Region has made notable progress in health and education:

• 97.2% of women attend at least four antenatal care visits — a stable indicator over the past 10 years.
• 98.4% of women register for antenatal care within the first four months of pregnancy — the second-highest rate nationally.
• The availability of pediatric hospital beds stands at 6 per 1,000 children — ranking the region second in the country.
• School attendance is consistently high across all levels of education, with no schools operating in three shifts.

However, the survey also revealed areas requiring increased attention:

• Overweight in children under 5 remains a pressing issue: 11 out of 100 children are moderately overweight, while 3 out of 100 are severely overweight.
• Among children aged 5–9, rates of stunting and overweight exceed national averages: 1 in 4 children is moderately overweight, and 10–11 out of 100 are severely overweight.
• Adolescent birth rates remain relatively high, with 27 births per 1,000 girls aged 15–19 — the sixth highest rate nationally.
• Only 6 out of 10 children aged 3–5 are enrolled in early childhood education — placing the region 17th nationwide.
• 2.3% of schools are classified as being in emergency condition — ranking Ulytau third among the most disadvantaged regions in this category.

Representatives of UNICEF, the Bureau of National Statistics, and the Akimat emphasized the importance of regularly using MICS data to inform and adapt regional programmes that benefit children and women. The results will serve as a foundation for cross-sectoral planning and accelerating progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Ulytau Region.

All parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing strategic dialogue and implementing joint initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable development and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for every child.