On October 30, 2026, a commemorative meeting and thematic guided tour entitled “The Spirit of Zheltoksan – The Foundation of Independence” were held at the Almaty Museum. The event was dedicated to the December 1986 events in Kazakhstan.

The event was attended by members of the “Mädenietkz” Club of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University as part of their practical training, as well as academic advisers of the Department of Religious Studies and Cultural Studies: S. Kaupenbayeva, Zh. Khasiyetova, N. Mukan, A. Aitenova, and A. Kuderina, together with undergraduate students from the first to fourth years.

First-year students enrolled in the “6B07105 – Materials Science and Technology of New Materials” educational programme at the Faculty of Physics and Technology also participated in the event under the guidance of Senior Lecturer S. Kudaibergenov. Their participation was integrated into a seminar for the course “Cultural Studies” on the topic “The Formation of Kazakh Culture”, providing an opportunity to broaden their historical and cultural knowledge.

During the meeting, distinguished guests who had personally witnessed the December 1986 events shared their experiences and personal memories. They spoke about the historical and political circumstances of that period, the civic stance of young people, and their struggle to defend national dignity and freedom. Through the firsthand accounts of eyewitnesses, students gained a deeper understanding of the historical significance of Zheltoksan, its place in Kazakhstan's history, and its contribution to the country's path towards independence. Students also had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions with the guests.

The main objectives of the event were to highlight the historical significance of the December events, honour the courage and civic commitment of the generation that struggled for independence, foster historical awareness and patriotism among young people, and strengthen intergenerational continuity.

The thematic guided tour was another important part of the programme, encouraging students to take a greater interest in national history and cultural heritage. Historical exhibits and materials presented at the museum helped participants gain a deeper understanding of the period and reflect on the place of these events in the collective memory of society.

The meeting, “The Spirit of Zheltoksan – The Foundation of Independence”, was both meaningful and educational. It offered students an opportunity to learn about history not only through textbooks but also through the firsthand memories and testimonies of those who experienced these events.

Zheltoksan is not merely a historical event; it is a symbol of national spirit, civic courage, and the pursuit of freedom. Events of this kind contribute to preserving historical memory, promoting national values, and fostering in the younger generation a profound respect for the history of their country and a sense of responsibility for safeguarding its Independence.