NU recently organized a visit to Abai region. The purpose of the trip was to pay tribute to the renowned Kazakh philosophers, poets, and public and political figures, Abai Kunanbaiuly and Shakarim Kudaiberdiuly, who have made significant contributions to Kazakh literature and culture. Led by President Shigeo Katsu, the students and faculty members of NU embarked on a journey to explore the cultural heritage of the Abai region and learn more about the life and works of these great poets.
Abai Kunanbaiuly, also known as Abai, was a prominent Kazakh poet, philosopher, and composer who lived in the 19th century. He is considered a national treasure in Kazakhstan and is celebrated for his profound insights on various subjects, including morality, education, and social issues. Similarly, Shakarim Kudaiberdiuly, also known as Shakarim, was a revered Kazakh poet and educator, known for his contributions to Kazakh literature and his efforts to promote education among the Kazakh people during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Both Abai and Shakarim are revered as national heroes and their works continue to inspire generations of Kazakh people.
Students, members of the Kazakh Stage student club, and President Shigeo Katsu paid their respects to Abai and Shakarim by visiting their tombs at Abai-Shakarim memorial complex in Zhidebai, considered a sacred place for Kazakh people. The students and President observed a moment of silence and dedicated prayers to honor the legacies of these great poets.
In addition to visiting the tombs, the NU delegation also explored other important cultural landmarks associated with Abai and Shakarim. They visited Abai’s house museum in Zhidebai, which is a preserved historical house where Abai spent his final years. The museum provides insights into Abai’s life, his family, and his creative works.
The delegation also visited Mukhtar Auezov’s house museum in Borili, which is dedicated to the famous Kazakh writer and scholar who extensively studied and wrote about the works of Abai and Shakarim. Auezov’s works have played a significant role in preserving and promoting the legacy of Abai and Shakarim, and his museum provided valuable information about their lives and works.
Furthermore, the NU students and President Katsu visited Abai Museum in Semey, which is a dedicated museum showcasing the life, works, and contributions of Abai to Kazakh literature and culture. The museum exhibits a vast collection of Abai’s manuscripts, personal belongings, and artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of his life and works.
The visit to Semey was not only an opportunity for the NU students to pay homage to Abai and Shakarim but also to deepen their understanding of Kazakh literature, culture, and history. President Katsu emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and fostering a sense of national pride among the students.
