“Successful Advertising” Campaign Held in Shymkent On April 3, 2025, the Department of Culture, Language Development, and Archives of Shymkent organized the “Successful Advertising” campaign in major shopping centers (“Alash,” “Bayan Sulu,” “Mega Planet”). The campaign aimed to ensure compliance with Article 21 of the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Languages” and to monitor the proper use of the state language in visual information and advertisements. As a result of the campaign: 187 commercial establishments were inspected; 48 establishments received legal clarifications; Brochures were distributed to entrepreneurs as methodological support. The event was attended by representatives of five district administrations and members of the working group responsible for state control over compliance with language legislation in Shymkent.
THE REPUBLICAN HUMOR FESTIVAL “SHYMKENT DUMAN” HAS STARTED IN SHYMKENT! Today, the Shymkent Duman Republican Humor Festival officially opened in Shymkent, dedicated to International Laughter Day (April 1) and celebrating the 75th anniversary of satirist and public figure K. Ämirbek! The goal of the festival is to develop the satire genre and support artists working in this field. The opening ceremony featured a traditional red carpet walk for the participants, honoring the talented performers. Within the festival, a panel of judges—including renowned Kazakh satirists Bauyrjan Ibrahimov, Mukhtar Sherim, Berik Tursynbekov, and Zhuldyzai Duysenbiyeva—will evaluate the performances and select the best acts. Theater groups from Almaty, Turkistan, Kyzylorda, and East Kazakhstan regions have joined the festival. Notably, the festival winners will be awarded tomorrow at 19:00 during the gala concert, which will take place in the concert hall of Tulip Hall.
SHYMKENT: A SPECIAL CELEBRATION OF NAURYZ Yesterday, Shymkent celebrated Nauryz on a grand scale, immersing the city in a festive atmosphere. Events took place from Astana Square to various districts and public spaces, honoring Kazakh traditions. The melodic sounds of the dombra, the enticing aroma of freshly made baursaks, and the cheerful laughter of children – all of this brought out the true spirit of Nauryz. A traditional ethno-village set up at Astana Square amazed visitors and showcased Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, a musical-theatrical performance, “Nauryznama,” featuring 500 performers, left the audience in awe. The festivities were further enriched by national games, heartfelt songs performed by grandmothers, blessings from elders, and joyful moments of youth swinging on the altybakan (Kazakh swings). Visitors gathered at the square to take photos with mighty warriors, watch the skills of eagle hunters, explore exhibitions of craftsmen and artists, and taste traditional Kazakh dishes. Additionally, exhibitions dedicated to historical figures enhanced the educational significance of Nauryz. At 7:00 PM, a grand gala concert attended by Mayor Gabit Syzdykbekov became the highlight of the event. Famous Kazakhstani pop stars – Zhubanysh Zheksenuly, Bauyrzhan Isaev, Dastan Orazbekov, Alzabi, Ziruza, and internationally renowned singer Jonathan Dassin – delivered an unforgettable night of entertainment. The gala concert concluded with a spectacular fireworks show, leaving Shymkent residents and guests with lasting memories of this unforgettable Nauryz celebration.
Traditional Public Festival “Qoshqar Ata Seili” Held in Shymkent On the eve of the great holiday of Nauryz, Shymkent hosted the traditional public festival “Qoshqar Ata Seili”, dedicated to promoting the cultural heritage of the Kazakh people. The event, organized on the banks of the Qoshqar Ata River, featured national traditions, a festive concert, and brought a joyful atmosphere to residents and guests of the city. Mayor of Shymkent, Gabit Syzdykbekov, visited the Qoshqar Ata River, where a recitation of the Quran took place, and a ram was sacrificed as part of the traditional rituals. The mayor also participated in the “Tusaukeser” ceremony, cutting the symbolic ties of toddlers and offering heartfelt wishes for their bright future. Guests then enjoyed an ethno-folk concert titled “Qosh Keldin, Koktem!” (Welcome, Spring!), showcasing the beauty of Kazakh art. Festival Highlights: • “Qutty Qonak Keldi, Aulga” presented traditional Kazakh customs and household rituals. • At the “Er Qanaty – Tulpar” venue, craftsmen exhibited horse harnesses and jewelry. • Along the Qoshqar Ata River, white yurts were set up, where Shymkent performers sang Kazakh songs, and artisans displayed their handcrafted works. • At the “Aq Dastarkhan” and “Nauryz Kozhe” fairs, visitors enjoyed traditional Kazakh dishes and drinks. • The “Shagyrdan Su Shygaru” area introduced guests to Kazakh agricultural traditions. • The “Sayat Quru” venue hosted “Zhekpe-Zhek” competitions, featuring traditional Kazakh hunting and martial arts. Notably, the festivities will continue from March 14 to March 23 as part of the “Nauryznama” ten-day celebration, offering even more exciting cultural events. As we prepare for the great Nauryz holiday, let’s come together to honor our national traditions and share our best wishes with one another!
Today, at the University of Friendship of Peoples, a republican conference titled “Language – a Tool of Interethnic Communication” was held, organized by the Department of Culture, Language Development, and Archives of Shymkent. This event was conducted as part of the action plan for implementing the Concept for the Development of Language Policy in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023–2029 in Shymkent. During the conference, participants discussed the role of the state language as a means of interethnic communication, as well as current issues related to its development and promotion. A video showcasing the efforts undertaken in Shymkent was also presented. State and public figure Orazkul Asangazykyzy addressed the national essence of the Kazakh language, emphasizing its importance in fostering unity and cohesion. Ongar Kural, an honored worker in the field of information in Kazakhstan, spoke about issues in language usage, while Doctor of Philology, Professor Serdali Bekzhigit Kenzhebekuly raised the topic of linguistic discrimination. Additionally, Batyrbek Zhalmurzayev, a representative of the Elders’ Council under the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan in Shymkent, highlighted the importance of the state language as a tool for interethnic communication. Meanwhile, Amina Egizbayeva, a representative of the Shymkent Police Department, provided insights into cases of linguistic discrimination in Kazakhstan and measures to combat them. The conference gathered linguists, media representatives, law enforcement officers, and advocates for the development of the state language.
