Kozybayev University at the Republican Youth Forum on Abai’s 180th Anniversary

In Semey, the Committee for Higher and Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan organized the Republican Youth Forum 'Abai’s Concept of the “Perfect Man”: National Values and Contemporary Perspectives' at Shakarim University. The event was dedicated to the 180th anniversary of Abai Kunanbayev — a philosopher, poet, and reformist whose legacy continues to shape the trajectory of national development. More than 70 participants from universities across the country took part in the forum, including scholars, faculty members, university leaders, and students.

The goal of the forum was to spark interest in Abai’s concept of the “Perfect Man” (“Tolyq adam”) as a moral foundation for modern society, and to reinterpret the great thinker’s philosophical ideas in the context of the challenges of the 21st century. The program included plenary sessions, practical workshops, youth debates, and discussions on integrating Abai studies into the current social and academic agenda. Among those present at the plenary session was Akerke Abylaikhan, Deputy Chair of the Committee for Higher and Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, along with leading scholars and researchers in Abai studies.

Kozybayev University was represented by Adilkhan Tolepbergen, Member of the Board for Social and Cultural Development, and Leila Berikova, a student of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMNS). Both received letters of appreciation from the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan — a well-deserved recognition of their contribution to youth policy, civic engagement, and dedication to their work. Leila is one of the university’s most active students. She serves as the student ombudsperson and regularly participates in the life of the department and university, balancing her studies with public activities.

As part of the forum, participants visited the State Historical, Cultural and Literary-Memorial Museum-Reserve of Abai “Zhidebai-Borili”, Regional Museum of Fine Arts Named after the Nevzorovs Family, attended the Karagoz student theater production, and took a guided tour of sites related to Abai’s life and legacy.