JOURNALISM STUDENTS TAKE PART IN THE VI INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM IN BISHKEK

From 22 to 24 October 2026, representatives of the Faculty of Journalism of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University participated in the VI International Symposium «Turkic World: Communication and Art», held in Bishkek. The academic event was organized by Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, and the Federation of Turkic World Journalists. The international symposium brought together 12 selected second-year students from the Film and Media educational programme. The delegation was led by Nurlyaiym Danaeva, PhD and Acting Associate Professor of the Department of Print and Electronic Media. The symposium served as an international academic platform for discussing current issues in journalism, communication, cinematography, digital media, and cultural interaction across the Turkic world.

International Cooperation and Exchange of Experience

During the academic visit, the KazNU delegation was welcomed by Besim Yildirim, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Communication at Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, together with the Deputy Deans, Associate Professor Gulzada Stanalieva and Associate Professor Erdogan Akman. The faculty administration introduced the Kazakhstani students to the university's educational system, academic and creative activities, as well as its modern television and radio studios. The students explored practical opportunities in media production and broadened their professional knowledge. The delegation also had a special meeting with Ismet Altintas, Professor and Vice-Rector of Manas University. The discussion focused on the shared historical and cultural heritage of Turkic peoples and the importance of education and science. The Vice-Rector's insightful account of the epic Manas made a particularly strong impression on the students. During the official meetings, commemorative gifts were presented on behalf of KazNU.

The Film «Zheltoksan Wind» Presented to an International Audience

One of the highlights of the symposium was the screening of «Желтоқсан желі», a short film produced by KazNU students. Dedicated to the December 1986 events, the film artistically portrays the younger generation's aspirations for freedom and their struggle for independence. Throughout the production process, the students took on the roles of screenwriters, directors, cinematographers, actors, and editors, gaining hands-on experience in the key stages of filmmaking. Presenting their first creative project to an international audience was an important achievement for the aspiring filmmakers.

New Environment, New Experiences, New Goals

The international visit provided the students with an opportunity not only to gain academic and practical experience but also to explore the educational environment of another country, establish professional contacts, and develop their creative potential.

Student Karakhat Ardakyzy shared her impressions: «What we witnessed left a lasting impression on our hearts, while the experience we gained became a guide for the future. This trip has turned into a meaningful memory that will remain in the hearts of the younger generation forever».

Meanwhile, Assel Kaskyrbayeva noted: «It was a great source of pride for us to have our first short film, "Zheltoksan Wind", which we produced ourselves, presented at the international level. I returned from this trip with new dreams, new goals, and a renewed sense of inspiration».

At the conclusion of the symposium, participants received international certificates.

This academic visit contributed to broadening KazNU students' professional horizons, strengthening international academic cooperation, and developing the creative potential of young filmmakers.

Nurlyaiym Danaeva,
PhD, Acting Associate Professor, 
Department of Print and Electronic Media