A Journey of Spiritual Upbringing: “The Scent of Wormwood” Left a Deep Impression on Students

On November 20, 2025, the Department of Botany and Agroecology organized a cultural visit for first-year students of the educational program 6B05102 – Biology (groups 25-17 and 25-18). Accompanied by their curator-adviser, PhD, Senior Lecturer Zh.A. Abdukadirova, the students attended the G. Musrepov Kazakh State Academic Theatre for Children and Youth to watch the performance “Zhusan iisi” (“The Scent of Wormwood”).

From the moment they entered the theatre, the students experienced a special excitement and emotional anticipation. The stage lights, music, and the artistic atmosphere immediately immersed them into the world of drama and reflection.

The main theme of the play is the difficult post-war period, longing for one’s homeland and childhood, and realizing the true value of peace and human kindness. In the performance, “The Scent of Wormwood” is portrayed not only as the smell of the steppe, but as a symbol of the native land, a mother’s care, pure childhood memories, and deep emotional warmth.

The actors’ sincere and powerful performance deeply moved the audience. At certain moments, students empathized so strongly with the characters that they were brought to tears, thinking about their own childhood, home, and the importance of living in peace.

At the end of the play, a brief silence filled the hall – a sign that what they had seen resonated strongly in the hearts and minds of the viewers. According to the students, “The Scent of Wormwood” was not just a theatrical production, but an important life lesson that reminded them about the consequences of war, the value of childhood, compassion, and humanity.

Department of Botany and Agroecology