COMPOSITE DEVELOPMENT INDEX (CDI) AS A TOOL FOR HUMAN CAPITAL ASSESSMENT

Abstract

In the context of digitalization of national economies and the growing dependence of countries' competitiveness on the quality of human capital, it is necessary to move from classical assessment models (such as HDI) to more flexible and structurally adapted approaches. In this article, we have developed and tested an integrated model for assessing human capital, the Composite Development Index (CDI), which combines traditional socio-economic indicators with digital transformation metrics (DTI) and sustainable development (SDI). The CDI model is adapted to the socio-economic realities of Kazakhstan and takes into account regional specifics. As part of the empirical analysis, CDI calculations were made for 20 regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The data obtained demonstrate significant territorial heterogeneity in digital maturity and sustainable development of human capital. Comparison with HDI showed that CDI is more sensitive to digital inequality factors, the level of ICT infrastructure and the degree of integration of ESG components. Based on the analysis, measures are proposed to eliminate digital and environmental gaps: the creation of regional digital training centers, the development of EdTech platforms, and the introduction of a system of digital competency profiles. The use of CDI in combination provides a multi-level system for assessing and managing human capital that can be applied both in public policy and in the business environment of Kazakhstan.