Today is National Press Day. It is a meaningful occasion when the weight of the word is recognized and tribute is paid to the national art of the written word. This day is not only an opportunity to acknowledge the work of members of the press who serve the spiritual life of the country, but also a moment to reflect on the role of print media in society. The words of the scholar and educator Akhmet Baitursynuly – “A newspaper is the eyes, ears, and voice of the people” – have not lost their relevance over time. Among such publications is the collective press of Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University — the Abai University newspaper, which has nurtured many outstanding personalities.

At Abai KazNPU, the newspaper first published in 1975 under the title Pedagog became the informational herald of the institution at that time and the voice of the entire pedagogical community. The publication reflected not only the everyday life of the university, but also the intellectual world of teachers and students, their academic pursuits, and the pressing issues of each era.

The first editor of the Pedagog newspaper was Töken Abdrakhmanov. He not only turned the newspaper into a source of information, but also elevated it to the level of a publication with its own perspective, direction, and distinctive voice. In subsequent years, the role of editor was held by Zhasaral Kuanyshalin and Dos Koshim. Notably, the student-oriented supplement Kökhiek was also published. In its pages, creative youth of Abai University presented in-depth interviews, extensive articles, poems, and artistic works.

After Kazakhstan gained independence and strengthened its state sovereignty, the newspaper, which had previously ceased publication, was revived in 2002 under the title Abai University. Since 2008, the newspaper has been led by its Editor-in-Chief, university graduate and poet Bolat Sharakhymbay. As part of the newspaper, a youth supplement titled Studentter Kündeligi (Student Diary) began publication, promoting student life and youth creativity. The supplement gained popularity among students and offered a deep insight into the university’s internal life. Issued by the Zhas Qalam creative association, which brought together talented students, the supplement sparked young people’s interest in literature and journalism and opened the way for numerous talents. Today, many graduates of the Zhas Qalam school have established their own distinctive voices in Kazakh literature and journalism, contributing to the development of national spiritual culture.

At every stage, the Abai University newspaper has responded accurately to the demands of the time, continuously renewing its content and format in step with the era. Its pages regularly feature articles by prominent scholars, insightful writings by experienced educators, as well as innovative research by young scientists and students. In essence, the Abai University newspaper is not only a printed chronicle of the university’s history, but also a platform that encourages young people to openly express their opinions and engage with scientific and social issues.

Today, the information space is rapidly evolving. The 21st century is the age of technology and artificial intelligence. Yet, no matter how time changes, the weight of the word remains unchanged. A publication with depth of thought, a clear purpose, and a strong spiritual foundation will always find its reader. The Abai University newspaper, which is part of the Abai University Media Center, will continue to offer readers meaningful content, modern design, and fresh ideas.

«Abai University» Media Center