Abstract
The privatization of higher education (HE) in Kazakhstan has become a controversial policy issue due to the growing influence of neoliberal ideologies in the HE sector since the 1990s. This topic is particularly relevant in the context of post-Soviet policy developments that concern equity, access and commercialization of HE. The purpose of this study is to analyze the ideological foundations and policy rationale behind the privatization of HE in Kazakhstan. The methodology of the study is based on critical discourse analysis (CDA) of key national policy documents. The study revealed that the privatization of HE in Kazakhstan has been implemented through a series of policy reforms influenced by neoliberal ideology. These reforms enabled the transformation of state universities into joint-stock companies, increased the participation of private investors, and introduced mechanisms for public-private partnership (PPP). Despite quality concerns following early privatization, recent reforms have aimed to enhance governance, guarantee financial sustainability, and protect key public universities from further privatization. The findings of this study have practical significance as they contribute to understanding the neoliberal reforms in HE, providing essential insights for policymakers and university leadership.