State Status of the Kazakh Language: KAZTEST system

Abstract

The article discusses the importance and role of the KAZTEST system in determining new directions and priorities of the language policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, increasing the status of the Kazakh language as the state language. Language policy involves complex processes and has both clear and open and hidden mechanisms. Scientists call language testing a hidden tool for achieving government and political goals related to language. According to the concept of development of language policy in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023-2029, if civil servants are required to take tests in the Kazakh language, the social value (prestige) of the state language will increase, which, in turn, will expand the area of distribution of the language in the official, official sphere. In the current situation, the use of the state language in official documents requires qualitative changes. The texts were prepared by translation from the Russian language, therefore there are texts that contradict the internal laws and norms of the language. Full command of the Kazakh language by civil servants not only provides communication opportunities for employees, but also creates conditions for the full use of the Kazakh language in all spheres of life. This approach will help the Kazakh language become a real tool of communication in society. Real and material motivation to study the state language will appear. It is associated with such social factors as a high position in society, professional growth, and belonging to a prestigious group.

Key words: state language, language policy, KAZTEST system, language testing.