On May 31, 2026, the Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Political Repression and Famine, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, addressed the nation, calling on citizens to preserve the memory of those who suffered unjust persecution and punishment as a result of violations of law and justice. The Head of State emphasized that independent Kazakhstan consistently creates conditions for the comprehensive protection of human rights and freedoms. He also identified Justice, Rule of Law, Patriotism, Diligence, and Respect for Nature as the key values guiding the country`s future development. Particular attention is being devoted to the advancement of science, high technologies, culture, and volunteerism.

Within the teaching of the course History of Kazakhstan, lecturers of the Department of Social Sciences, Humanities, and World Languages place significant emphasis on the historical events of the 1920s–1950s, a period marked by mass political repression and the tragic famine of the 1930s. During lectures and seminars, students examine the lives and activities of prominent figures who struggled for the revival of national statehood and study the scholarly legacy of intellectuals who became victims of political persecution. Among them are Alikhan Bokeikhan, Akhmet Baitursynuly, Mirzhakyp Dulatuly, Mukhamedzhan Tynyshpaev, Sanjar Asfendiyarov, Yermukhan Bekmakhanov, Alkey Margulan, Telzhan Shonanuly, and many other distinguished representatives of the Kazakh intelligentsia. As part of the curriculum, students are introduced to Viktor Kozodoy’s well-known work Alikhan Bokeikhanov: A Man of an Era. In this study, the author presents Alikhan Bokeikhan as the leader of the Alash Movement and the Alash Orda government, highlighting his profound influence on a crucial period in Kazakhstan’s national history. Unjustly repressed during the Soviet era, he has since been fully rehabilitated, and his name has been restored to the historical memory of the nation.

While studying this period, students also become familiar with the literary and publicistic works of Akhmet Baitursynuly, including Masa (The Mosquito) and Forty Fables. They learn about his outstanding contributions to the development of the Kazakh language and literature, as well as his numerous publications in the newspaper Qazaq. In addition, students visit the Akhmet Baitursynuly House Museum, gaining a deeper understanding of his life, scholarship, and educational activities.

Particular attention is devoted to the scholarly legacy of the eminent historian Yermukhan Bekmakhanov. Students study his research on the national liberation movement led by Kenesary Kasymov, analyze his historical interpretations, compare different scholarly perspectives, and develop their own assessments of historical events. It is well known that Bekmakhanov himself became a victim of politically motivated persecution and unjust accusations during the 1950s.

Students also complete research assignments dedicated to the lives and contributions of repressed scholars, poets, writers, public intellectuals, and statesmen. Such activities contribute to a more objective understanding of Kazakhstan’s history, deepen appreciation for the role of the national intelligentsia in the struggle for freedom, independence, and cultural revival, and help students comprehend the tragic consequences of totalitarian policies.

The Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan defines the protection of human and civil rights and freedoms as one of the fundamental values of the state. Today, the country continues to implement political and legal reforms aimed at building a Just Kazakhstan. These initiatives serve to strengthen the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, and preserve social harmony. Therefore, preserving the memory of the tragic events of the 1920s–1950s, including political repression and famine, preventing their recurrence, and upholding historical justice remain both a civic and moral responsibility of every citizen. By remembering the lessons of the past, we can continue to strengthen the future of independent Kazakhstan on the principles of peace, unity, and justice.