A Qualitative Study on the Perceived Contributions of Regional Standards-Based Vocational Training to Work Performance and Innovation Skills in the Kazakhstan Labor Market

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the impact of training based on regional human resources development standards in the Kazakhstan labor market on employees’ work performance and innovation skills. The research employed a case study based on qualitative research designs. The study group consists of 18 participants selected with maximum diversity from 150 participants who participated in the training program based on regional human resources development standards in the Kazakhstan labor market. The training was carried out between October and December in 2024 based on the Rapid Foresight (RF) methodologies. During the training, basic stages such as preliminary preparation, in-house analyses, foresight sessions, scenario development, and result reporting were implemented, and future competency maps, strategy drafts, and projection scenarios were formed with the participants. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers and subjected to content analysis. The research results revealed that training based on regional human resources development standards implemented in the Kazakhstan labor market had positive effects on employees’ work performance and innovation skills. The participants showed significant improvements in areas such as time management, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and teamwork. The practical and interactive structure of the trainings deepened the learning process and transformed individual gains into institutional success. In this context, it is recommended that future training programs be structured according to sectoral needs, enriched with individual mentoring support, and cover areas such as digital literacy and crisis management. Training should be considered a key to not only individual but also regional development.