Abstract
In 2024, Kazakhstan introduced a new science and technology policy to bridge academia and industry. Despite this, challenges persist due to conflicting goals, limited industry capacity, and bureaucratic obstacles. Based on a survey of 700 academics and 108 business representatives, this study identifies major barriers to collaboration, including the underdevelopment of high-tech industries, bureaucratic hurdles in research organizations, and insufficient funding. Notably, satisfaction varied by organization type, with state universities expressing higher satisfaction compared to private research institutions. These findings underscore the need for policy reforms that reduce bureaucratic barriers, enhance funding, and foster active engagement in university-industry partnerships for innovation.