Today, Abai University held a celebratory event entitled “Honouring Teachers Is a Sacred Duty” to pay tribute to educators who have devoted their lives to education and science, the upbringing of future generations, and the advancement of Kazakhstan’s national pedagogy. The event highlighted the importance of honouring veteran educators, passing on their professional experience to younger generations, and recognising the vital role of the teaching profession in society.

Since 1 October, Kazakhstan has been observing a month-long campaign dedicated to the International Day of Older Persons. In this regard, Abai University paid tribute to senior colleagues and veterans who devoted their professional lives to the growth and development of the university, presenting them with commemorative gifts in recognition of their service.

Opening the event, Bolat Tilep, Chairman of the Board and Rector of Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, spoke about the significance of the gathering and outlined the university’s current development strategy. He reviewed achievements in academic and organisational activities, as well as progress and future priorities in research. Bolat Anapiyauly also elaborated on the challenges arising from the demands of the modern era and the transformation required for pedagogical science to address the challenges of the age of artificial intelligence. He expressed his gratitude to the university’s senior generation for their many years of dedicated service to education and science, highlighting their invaluable contribution to the establishment and advancement of Kazakhstan’s pedagogical tradition.

“As a Kazakh saying goes, ‘A nation that does not honour its elders is left with a neglected past, an empty present and a hollow future.’ The very fact that we dedicate an entire month to showing our appreciation for our respected senior generation is an expression of the state’s respect for you. Every achievement we have reached has been made possible, in part, by your hard work and contribution,” said Bolat Anapiyauly.

Berikzhan Aitkululy, Chair of the University’s Council of Veterans, also delivered congratulatory remarks, sharing his reflections on the value of the teaching profession and the important role that the senior generation plays in setting an example for those who follow.

During the official part of the celebration, a number of veteran educators who have made significant contributions to the university’s development, educational activities and the upbringing of young people received letters of appreciation from the Chairman of the Board and Rector of Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. Mukhtar Botabayuly, Chair of the university’s trade union organisation, also presented the veterans with various gifts.

The celebration concluded with a concert programme. The student band “A Blues Band”, the university’s Zhaidarman comedy team, and Kazakhstani pop star Baglan Abdiraiymov delighted the audience and created a festive atmosphere.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Media Center «Abai University»