On April 7, a ceremonial presentation of the fundamental scientific work – the 7-volume “Concise Dictionary of Kazakh Ethnography” – was held at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. The scientific and educational publication was highly appreciated as an important work that systematizes the rich cultural heritage and spiritual values of the Kazakh people and presents them to the public.

The event was opened by the Chairman of the Board-Rector of the University, Bolat Tilep, who emphasized the special significance of this project in terms of national science and spiritual modernization.

– The “Concise Dictionary of Kazakh Ethnography” is not just a scientific work, but a unique collection that systematizes the way of life, traditions, and worldview of our people formed over centuries. The dictionary includes more than 2,120 ethnographic terms, explained briefly and precisely. Most importantly, these concepts have been translated into 7 world languages, making it possible to present Kazakh culture at the international level. Such a large-scale work contributes to shaping the historical consciousness of the younger generation and preserving the national code. Therefore, the scientific and practical significance of this publication is extremely high, – said Bolat Anapiyauly.

The publication of the dictionary was initiated by Askarbek Kabykenovich Kusainov, President of the Academy of Pedagogical Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Research Professor at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor. The authors include well-known scholars and public figures. In particular, they are Alimkhan Zhunisbek, Doctor of Philological Sciences; Alfiya Soltanbekova, Head of the Grammar Department at the A. Baitursynuly Institute of Linguistics; Mirbolat Zhakypov, a statesman and public figure; Sabyrkul Asanova, Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor of Art Studies, as well as other leading scholars from various fields.

During the presentation, several scholars delivered reports and provided a comprehensive analysis of the scientific content and structure of the dictionary. Among the speakers were Doctor of Historical Sciences, Academician Khangeldi Abzhanov, Doctors of Philology Aigul Zhumabekova and Tanat Ayapova, Candidate of Philology, Associate Professor Kul’sin Abdrakhmanova, and ethnolinguistics specialist Elmira Otebayeva.

Experts emphasized the linguistic, cultural, and historical significance of the multi-volume work, highly evaluating its place in academic circulation.

The “Concise Dictionary of Kazakh Ethnography” is a comprehensive scientific work covering the worldview, traditions, lifestyle, and beliefs of the Kazakh people. The publication not only provides definitions of ethnographic concepts such as dombra, shanyrak, kerege, and shildekhana, but also demonstrates their usage in literary works.

In addition, the work systematizes national concepts recognized as exotic vocabulary and translates them into English, Chinese, German, Russian, Turkish, and French.

According to scholars, this dictionary is an important source that reveals the deep roots of national culture. It contributes to revitalizing the historical memory of the younger generation, preserving national identity, and ensuring the continuity of traditions.

“Abai University” Media Center