The hall and auditorium named after the academician were opened

At the end of May, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University traditionally celebrated one of its warmest and most unifying events—the annual Alumni Day. Once again, the university welcomed graduates whose professional journeys had begun within the walls of their alma mater.

While Alumni Day provides every faculty with an opportunity to reflect on its achievements, this year's celebration held special historical significance for the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, particularly the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry. The department officially inaugurated a memorial hall, a renovated lecture room, and a bronze bust dedicated to the distinguished scientist, Academician Khabibulla Kusainovich Ospanov (1932–2022), Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Professor.

The project represents far more than a tribute to an outstanding scholar. The modernization of the department's educational and research facilities was entirely conceived, organized, and financed by Professor Ospanov's grateful former students under the leadership of Altynbek Nukhuly, Member of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and a prominent public figure. Their return to their alma mater as benefactors vividly demonstrates that the academic traditions established by Academician Ospanov continue to thrive.

For many years, Khabibulla Kusainovich Ospanov headed the department and became not only an eminent scientist but also a devoted mentor to several generations of Kazakhstani chemists. The entrance hall now features the words of the great Kazakh poet Abai:

“A person's humanity comes from a good teacher.”

This quotation perfectly reflects Professor Ospanov's educational philosophy.

He possessed a rare ability to recognize in every student and graduate researcher not merely a trainee, but a future colleague and independent scholar. He sincerely cared for his students, helping them overcome both academic and personal challenges, encouraging them to pursue ambitious goals, and creating an environment in which they could fully realize their potential.

Another inscription displayed within the department quotes Zhusipbek Aimauytov:

“A teacher is not a true teacher unless he wholeheartedly cares for his students; a student is not a true student unless he respects his teacher.”

The fact that Professor Ospanov's former students united decades later to create this remarkable educational space stands as a tangible expression of that enduring mutual respect.

The newly established memorial hall and lecture room function as an interactive museum of science. Every element of the interior design reflects Professor Ospanov's outstanding contributions to both Kazakhstani and international chemistry. The walls prominently display his major scientific achievements, including the famous Khabibulla Ospanov Formula,

Δf​G0​=−nΔf​G0​,

which describes thermodynamic regularities governing mineral dissolution, as well as the H. Ospanov Thermodynamic Series, extending from chalcocite (Cu₂S) through silver- and arsenic-bearing compounds to molybdenite (MoS₂). These scientific concepts, which made important contributions to hydrometallurgy and chemical kinetics, now serve as visual educational tools for future generations of students.

The exhibition also features chemical symbols representing the elements and compounds investigated by Professor Ospanov and his scientific school, including Cu, Zn, Pb, Be, Au, and Os.

Particular attention is drawn to a large map of Kazakhstan displayed under the title "Students of Khabibulla Ospanov." The map illustrates the remarkable geographic reach of his scientific school. His former students—now Doctors and Candidates of Sciences, researchers, and leading industrial specialists—work throughout Kazakhstan, from Bayanaul and Pavlodar to Almaty, and from Kostanay and Aktobe to Kyzylorda and Karaganda, demonstrating the nationwide influence of his academic legacy.

The celebration brought together many of Kazakhstan's leading chemists, Professor Ospanov's longtime colleagues from universities across the country, as well as members of his family, including his children and grandchildren.

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was the unveiling of the white marble bust of Academician Ospanov. Accompanied by applause, Zhanseit Tuimebayev, Chairman of the Management Board – Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, together with distinguished academicians, officially opened the memorial by cutting the ceremonial ribbon. Surrounded by flowers, the monument now permanently honors the memory of the renowned scientist and educator.

The renovated lecture room offers students state-of-the-art learning facilities, including modern ergonomic furniture, advanced multimedia equipment, and a large interactive digital display for lectures and presentations. Bookshelves contain Professor Ospanov's monographs, textbooks, patents, and scientific publications, while archival family photographs, images from his professional career, and reproductions of his numerous awards, diplomas, and medals decorate the walls.

Another inscription displayed in the lecture room conveys Professor Ospanov's enduring message to future generations:

“If your work is honest and your efforts are tireless, your dedication will be recognized, and success will find you.”

These words will continue to inspire every student entering the classroom. Through this newly created educational space, the legacy of Khabibulla Kusainovich Ospanov will continue to guide and inspire future leaders of Kazakhstan's scientific community.

Alma Tusupbekova
Candidate of Chemical Sciences, Associate Professor

Aisulu Zhusupova
Candidate of Chemical Sciences, Associate Professor

Ryskul Azhigulova
Candidate of Chemical Sciences, Senior Lecturer

Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University