New Military Service Law: Draft Notices via SMS and New Benefits

The Senate has approved a set of amendments concerning military service and patriotic education. Among the most notable changes: draft notices can now be officially sent via SMS or through a personal account on the eGov portal, Orda.kz reports.

The law introduces updated requirements for teachers of Basic Military Training (BMT) in schools. From now on, they must have military service experience. They’ll also be required to regularly complete refresher courses—either at military academies or university-based military departments.

According to Senator Andrey Lukin, the law is aimed at building a clear system of pre-conscription training. The government plans to expand additional education in this area and establish specialized military schools in every region.

Graduates of these programs will have an advantage when applying to military universities and will be able to sign contracts for military service right away.

The law also includes measures to attract more people to contract service and raise the prestige of the armed forces. Those who complete their military service will be allowed to enroll in universities or colleges for two years without taking the Unified National Test (UNT) or entrance exams.

They also won’t be required to work off their education, even if it’s funded by the state.

Meanwhile, the spring draft in Kazakhstan has sparked controversy.

Original Author: Artem Volkov