Affordable Housing Program Launched in North Kazakhstan

North Kazakhstan Launches "Kyzyljar Zhastary" Housing Loan Program Petropavlovsk, Kazakhstan – A new initiative aimed at assisting young people in acquiring housing has been launched in North Kazakhstan. The "Kyzyljar Zhastary" program, starting May 26th, offers preferential loans with attractive terms. Nurzhan Alibekov, director of Otbasy Bank SKO, explained, "The maximum loan amount is 15 million tenge in Petropavlovsk and 10 million tenge in regional centers." The program requires a 10% down payment, but higher contributions are accepted. The annual interest rate is 6%, and the loan term extends up to 19 years. Kemel Ospanov, deputy head of the Internal Policy Department of SKO, added that 19 projects totaling 123 million tenge are planned for this year, with nine already underway. Ospanov emphasized that this is the first specialized program of its kind in the region's history. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including age (under 35), residency (two years in the region), and work experience (six months). Selection will be based on a transparent points system considering social status, family situation, and professional experience. Nariman Zholdasbekov, an artist at the Akana Seri Regional Philharmonic, expressed interest in the program, stating, "Inclusion in the list of cultural workers is encouraging, although it's a 50/50 chance. We plan to apply and take the necessary steps." The program aims to provide affordable housing to young specialists in various fields, including healthcare, veterinary medicine, culture, sports, and social protection. Further information is available from the Internal Policy Department or by phone at 49-02-12, 46-14-58.