Art therapy – a new way to reveal the potential of students

Since the beginning of the academic year, students of the Department of Recreational Geography and Tourism at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) have been implementing a unique project: art therapy classes. This method helps students unlock their inner potential, develop creative thinking, and more easily absorb educational material.

Art therapy sessions are conducted in various formats, including painting, collage creation, sand therapy, musical visualization, and even short performances. Such activities help students maintain emotional balance, freely express their thoughts, and establish effective communication with peers.

According to department curators, art therapy is particularly important within the framework of inclusive education policy. “This method represents a new culture of working with students. We create conditions for the personal development of every student, paying special attention to young people who have low communication skills or find it difficult to express themselves. Art therapy increases their self-confidence”, - says Azamat Almatuly, senior curator of the department.

A key principle of the project is the regular communication and trust between curators and students. During specially organized meetings, participants openly discuss challenges in both academic and personal life, providing mutual support.

KazNU’s policies prioritize inclusive education and psychological well-being. The university pays significant attention to the personal and emotional development of students, creating an environment that supports them spiritually.

Currently, art therapy is widely used in leading universities around the world, such as the University of Manchester (UK), the University of Helsinki (Finland), and Yonsei University (South Korea). KazNU students are adapting this international experience to local characteristics and integrating it with creative approaches.

“Future professionals in tourism and recreation must deeply understand the psychological aspects of working with people. Art therapy develops these skills and enhances students’ professional readiness”, - says Aiman Shakenkyzy, Deputy Dean for Educational and Methodological Work at the Faculty of Geography and Environmental Management.

The department plans to introduce art therapy elements into student clubs and educational activities in the future. This initiative reflects KazNU’s scientific-educational model, based on the principle of “Harmony between People and Society”.

Ruslan BAYBORIEV, PhD
Head of the Department of Recreational Geography and Tourism