Altybakan: Connecting National Art, Cultural Heritage and Education

International students of the Faculty of Pre-University Education at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University participated in a cultural and educational visit to Altybakan, a traditional Kazakh musical and theatrical performance celebrating the nation's rich artistic heritage, customs and spiritual values.

With the support of the university administration, international students were provided with complimentary tickets, giving them an opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of Kazakhstan's national culture and performing arts.

The event was organized in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education and SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.

A key educational aspect of the visit was the integration of classroom learning with practical cultural experience. In particular, the topic of "Traditional and Ritual Songs", studied within the "Oral Folk Literature" section of the Kazakh Literature course, was brought to life through theatrical performances. This approach enabled students to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and spiritual meaning of Kazakh traditions.

The evening featured musical works by prominent representatives of Kazakh cultural heritage, Ukili Ybyrai and Abai Kunanbayuly. The audience was introduced to the distinctive singing traditions of the Arqa and Zhetysu regions, the art of aitys (improvised poetic competition), traditional dances, kuy instrumental competitions, and theatrical scenes portraying Kazakh customs and everyday cultural practices.

In the context of SDG 4, the event contributed to broadening students' educational perspectives, strengthening cultural awareness and reinforcing theoretical knowledge through direct artistic experience. In support of SDG 11, the initiative emphasized the preservation and promotion of intangible cultural heritage and encouraged international students to engage with Kazakhstan's historical and cultural values.

The cultural visit provided a valuable opportunity for international students to deepen their appreciation of Kazakh history, literature and traditional arts while fostering intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding and respect.

Such initiatives demonstrate Al-Farabi Kazakh National University's commitment to sustainable development by integrating quality education, cultural engagement and the preservation of national heritage into the educational experience.