The history of Abai University is a chronicle of boundless patriotism and unyielding spirit, marking the Second World War as a time of immense trial when more than 800 staff members and students left their studies for the front lines from the very first days of the conflict.

The pride of the university remains the legendary Malik Gabdullin, a 1935 graduate of the Faculty of Philology who demonstrated extraordinary courage near Moscow as part of the Panfilov Division. Awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his valor, he later served as the university's Rector from 1953 to 1963, contributing significantly to its development. As a writer and literary scholar, he left an enduring legacy for future generations, which was recently honored with the opening of a dedicated classroom for his 110th anniversary.

Numerous soldiers from the institution earned the highest state distinctions for their bravery on the battlefield. Kanash Kamzin, a geography student from 1937 to 1941, served as a company commander and gave his life during the crossing of the Dniester in 1944. Rakhymzhan Tokataev served with distinction as an artilleryman in fierce battles for Czechoslovakia and later returned to complete his degree in Mathematics. Vladimir Breusov, a Hero of the Soviet Union for his actions at Kharkiv in 1943, led the university's Department of Political Economy in the post-war years.

Akhmediyar Kusainov was recognized for his bravery in liberating Melitopol before pursuing his studies at the Faculty of History. Sadu Shakirov, another history graduate, showed immense dedication within an infantry division starting in 1942, while Kudaibergen Suraganov earned his Hero title for bravery on the banks of the Oder and later completed his postgraduate research in physics and mathematics. Zholdybay Nurlybaev fell heroically in the battle for the city of Lukatz-Kreutz, securing his place in the nation’s history.

The university also honors the legendary names of partisan Kasym Kaisenov and Rakhymzhan Koshkarbaev, who famously raised the victory banner over the Reichstag. Furthermore, the esteemed writer Adi Sharipov utilized his experience from the partisan movement to lead the nation's education sector after the war. Today, the "Erlikke Tagzym" memorial in front of the main building stands as a lasting tribute to those who sacrificed their lives and a symbol of eternal respect for the veterans and heroes who returned with victory.

Abai University Media Center