As part of the "Partnership for Sustainable Development" goal within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the faculty and students of the Department of Middle East and South Asia participated in an event dedicated to the Yalda celebration.

On December 26, faculty and students of the Iranian Studies section of the Department of Middle East and South Asia attended the "Yalda Celebration" event held at the Cultural Center under the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Almaty. Yalda, or Yalda Night, is the celebration of the winter solstice, marking the longest night of the year. The event included discussions about the continuity between Yalda and Nowruz celebrations. Since ancient times, Yalda has been a moment of patience and hope for families welcoming the shortening of the night and the lengthening of the day. Nowruz, meaning "New Day," is associated with rebirth and renewal that accompany the arrival of spring. Both Yalda and Nowruz hold astrological significance. During the event, students also became acquainted with the traditional rituals of the Yalda celebration.