An айтыс (traditional poetic improvisation contest) among students will be held within the walls of the Al-Farabi Library, dedicated to the 180th anniversary of the great poet of the Kazakh people and an outstanding representative of national духовность — Zhambyl Zhabayev, under the title “THE SPIRIT OF AITYS: ZHAMBYL OF YESTERDAY — YOUTH OF TODAY.”
The main purpose of this cultural event is to convey Zhambyl’s rich legacy to the younger generation, revive the art of айтыс, and unlock the creative potential of university youth. Moreover, this competition will serve as an important духовный platform, marking a new stage in the revival of student айтыс after many years and affirming the continuity of national art within the modern youth environment.
Date: April 3, 2026
Venue: Al-Farabi Library, 4th floor, Conference Hall 416
Time: 15:00
During the айтыс, young akyns will raise актуальные themes in their performances, including patriotism, unity, education, science, national values, modern society, and the responsibility of youth. On stage, the modern embodiment of the national spirit, once celebrated by Zhambyl, will be vividly expressed. This competition, where the wisdom of степная tradition intertwines with the intellectual potential of contemporary student youth, will become a symbol of generational continuity.
The event will be attended by the university leadership, representatives of the intelligentsia, faculty members, and students. At the conclusion of the айтыс, the best young akyns will be awarded.
“THE SPIRIT OF AITYS: ZHAMBYL OF YESTERDAY — YOUTH OF TODAY” is not merely a creative competition, but a meaningful духовный evening that celebrates the national spirit while fostering a culture of speech, oratory excellence, and the civic consciousness of the younger generation.
