Abstract
This qualitative study investigates the motivations of current teachers why they choose teaching as a career in the Almaty region, Kazakhstan. Against the backdrop of demographic shifts and increasing demand for teachers, the research analyzes factors influencing career choices and the implications of teacher turnover. Using in-depth interviews, data was collected from 20 current teachers of public schools. According to 6-step thematic analysis recommended by Braun & Clark, results revealed a spectrum of reasons classified as material and non-material, encompassing factors like salary, job security, personal fulfillment, altruism, and familial influence. The research emphasizes the intricate interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations in career decisions, offering insights into addressing teacher shortages and enhancing the allure of teaching as a profession in Kazakhstan.