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Exploring latent dimensions of in situ urbanization in northern rural Kazakhstan through structural equation modeling

Author

Listed:
  • Darima Zhenskhan

    (S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University)

  • Onggarbek Alipbeki

    (Al-Farabi Kazakh National University)

  • Song Soo Lim

    (Korea University)

  • Jumi Song

    (Korea University)

  • Aida Balkibayeva

    (The Academy of Physical Education and Mass Sports)

  • Anar Nukesheva

    (S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University)

  • Raushan Mussina

    (S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University)

  • Gauhar Mussaif

    (S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University)

Abstract

In situ urbanization is a rural development model in which the essential rural characteristics are maintained while living standards are raised to urban levels. Few studies determined the complex factors influencing in situ urbanization, despite its importance for rural development, in developing Central Asian Countries such as Kazakhstan. The objective of this study was to examine evidence of in situ urbanization and investigate its driving factors in northern rural Zerendy, Kazakhstan. Annual data from 22 rural settlements between 2015 and 2022, including 79 villages in the Zerendy District, one of the largest getaways in the Akmola Region, were used. The results of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and structural models supported the relevance of productivity, amenities and friction as constructs associated with in situ urbanization patterns in the area. Among the three factors, amenities demonstrated the strongest association with in situ urbanization processes. Productivity and friction constructs yielded only statistically insignificant path coefficients. These findings imply that improving the availability of rural amenities can be a useful policy strategy to aid a country’s rural development.

Suggested Citation

  • Darima Zhenskhan & Onggarbek Alipbeki & Song Soo Lim & Jumi Song & Aida Balkibayeva & Anar Nukesheva & Raushan Mussina & Gauhar Mussaif, 2025. "Exploring latent dimensions of in situ urbanization in northern rural Kazakhstan through structural equation modeling," Asia-Pacific Journal of Regional Science, Springer, vol. 9(2), pages 329-355, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:apjors:v:9:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s41685-025-00376-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s41685-025-00376-8
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