XXVI Republican (International) Creative Contest “Abai oqulary”

1. General Information

In honor of the 180th anniversary of the great Kazakh poet, thinker, and educator Abai Kunanbayuly, the XXVI Republican Creative Contest   “Abai Readings” will be held in an international format in 2025.

Organizers of the contest: Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Republican Scientific and Practical Center “Daryn”, Department of Education of Abai Region.

Venue: Semey city, Abai Region, Republic of Kazakhstan
Dates of the contest: June 18–21, 2025
Arrival date: June 18, 2025
Departure date: June 21, 2025

The contest aims to promote the literary and spiritual heritage of Abai, support talented youth, and foster interest in classical Kazakh literature among students both in Kazakhstan and abroad.

2. Participants

The contest welcomes:

• Students in grades 8–11(12) from Kazakh schools in Kazakhstan and abroad (including countries with compact Kazakh communities);
• Winners of regional and local qualifying stages;
• Delegations consisting of 5 participants (one per nomination) and  1 team leader.

3. Main Nominations

The contest includes the following five nominations:

1. “Abai’s Sacred Legacy” – expressive recitation by heart of Abai’s poems and words of edification.
2. “Poetic Disciples of Abai” – recitation of poems by Shakarim Kudaiberdiuly, Akylbai Abaiuly, and Magauiya Abaiuly.
3. “If You Love a Song, Love It Like Me” – performance of songs and kyuis by Abai, Shakarim, and their disciples.
4. “Everyone Has a Claim to Poetry” – recitation of original poems composed by the participants.
5. “The Image of Great Abai in Literature” – literary analysis of the image of Abai in artistic and literary works.

4. Expenses and Participation Conditions

• Accommodation and meals for participants and accompanying persons during the entire contest period (June 18–21) are covered   by the organizers.
• Travel expenses to and from the contest venue are borne by the sending party.
• For participants from visa-required countries, the organizers will provide visa support (invitations, official letters, etc.) in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

5. Cultural and Educational Program

As part of the contest, a special excursion program will be organized for participants, including visits to landmarks associated with the life and work of Abai Kunanbayuly and his intellectual circle:

• Abai’s native village — Kaskabulak.
• Abai and Shakarim Memorial Complex in the Zhidebai area.
• Abai and M. Auezov Literary-Memorial Museums in Boryly village.
• City tour of Semey, the cradle of Kazakh intellectualism and home to many prominent historical figures.

6. Additional Information

• Up-to-date information about the contest, requirements, program, and application forms is available via WhatsApp: +7 777 511 19 86
• Contact address:
  Republic of Kazakhstan, Astana city, Mangilik El Avenue, 8/2,
  “Altyn Orda” Business Center, Office 307
  Tel.: +7 (7172) 57 65 63
  E-mail: info@daryn.kz

Organizing Committee

Republican Scientific and Practical Center “Daryn”
Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan