Spiritual Renewal Platform Dedicated to the 180th Anniversary of Abai

On April 19, 2025, the Pedagogical Institute of Astana International University, in collaboration with its branch at Secondary School No. 101 of the Astana City Akimat and with the support of the "Methodological Center" of the Department of Education of the Astana Akimat, held an international scientific-practical seminar titled “Abai's Concept of the ‘Perfect Human’ — The Guiding Principle of Kazakh Spirituality,” dedicated to the 180th anniversary of the great poet, thinker, and composer Abai Qunanbaiuly.

The seminar aimed to improve teaching methods of Abai’s works, integrate his philosophical legacy into education, and foster professional exchange among innovative educators and creatively-minded students through modern technology.

Participants were welcomed by the orchestra of traditional instruments from Astana International University. The event brought together over 500 attendees, including public figures, writers, scholars, university professors, school teachers, and students.

The program included exhibitions, a PODCAST zone, a round table on “Abai’s Concept and Modern Times,” national art performances, a plenary session, and various thematic breakout sessions.

The exhibition featured items such as museum artifacts from the Bukhar Zhyrau Literature and Art Museum, methodological tools from the "Til-Qazyna" National Scientific-Practical Center, educational resources, electronic games, and national handicrafts created by teachers of visual and applied arts.

At the PODCAST platform, Abai’s direct descendant, veteran educator Laylya Mukhlysqyzy, gave an interview titled “Abai’s Legacy — A Beacon in the Memory of Generations.” Additionally, poet and Abai scholar Almakhan Mukhametkalykhyzy presented her book “Characters of ‘The Path of Abai’ and Abai.”

The round table facilitated discussions among Abai scholars on pressing issues in education and child development.

The seminar opened with a performance of “Abai’s Homeland” by traditional singer Gulmira Ayymgazyqyzy from the “Shabyt” Academy. A moving student performance titled “The Battle of Light and Dark” was followed by a choir of 180 teachers singing Abai’s “Zhelsiz tún’de zharyq ai,” joined in unison by the audience.

During the plenary session, both local and international scholars presented. Twelve seminar rooms hosted sessions across various themes: performing Abai’s music, poetry contests, artwork based on Abai’s prose, educational comic creation, pedagogical innovations, and master classes.

Participants expressed their gratitude via QR feedback, noting the high standard of the event and the enduring significance of Abai’s philosophy for Kazakh spirituality.

On behalf of the AIU administration, sincere thanks are extended to Associate Professor, PhD Galiyabanu Kabievna Rezuanova; Principal of School No. 101 Alma Altynkhanovna Zhumabekova; Deputy Principal Almagul Zhaikovna Nurgalieva; literature teachers; methodologist Saya Ualikhanovna Kabazhaeva; and Methodological Center’s specialist Zhanar Seitakhmetovna Maman.