Students' access to quality education and attainment of high results are directly linked to their emotional and psychological stability. Only a psychologically resilient student can thoroughly absorb information, develop critical thinking, and fully focus on the learning process. In line with this, preventive seminar titled "Prevention of Risks of Youth Entering the NEET Category: Socio-Psychological Support Mechanisms" was held today at Abai University.

The event aimed to increase students' motivation for learning and professional development, as well as to help them define their life goals. PhD and practicing psychologist Alfiya Gumerova was specially invited to conduct the preventive seminar. She urged young people not to enter the NEET category—a social group consisting of individuals who lack the desire to study or work. According to the specialist, a significant number of young people aged 15–34 in society need such socio-psychological support. This is because psychological challenges such as low self-esteem, comparing oneself to others, and struggling to find one's place in society as an individual have become prevalent among youth.

The speaker discussed practical approaches based on several theoretical concepts in psychological science. Specifically, drawing on Albert Bandura's self-efficacy concept, she explained the importance of a person's belief in their ability to accomplish a specific task. Additionally, issues regarding the process of personal identity formation, self-exploration, and making conscious choices proposed by James Marcia were addressed.

According to statistics, the number of NEET youth in Kazakhstan stands at 312.9 thousand people, accounting for 5.7% of the total youth population in the country. The issue of NEET youth is one of the key areas in the fields of education, employment, and social support. Consequently, efforts focused on developing youth potential, career guidance, labor market adaptation, and providing socio-psychological support have become increasingly important.

Media Center «Abai University»