MEMORY FOR THE FUTURE

In the framework of the Day of Remembrance of Victims of Political Repression and Famine, which is celebrated on May 31, a round table “Memory for the Future” was held. The event was attended by the faculty of the Department of History of Kazakhstan and Social and Humanitarian Disciplines, students, as well as employees of the institution “State Archive” of the Department of Digitalization and Archives of the region.

During the meeting the participants discussed one of the most tragic pages of the XX century – the period of political repressions and mass starvation, shared their thoughts about the past, which left these events in the memory of the people.

– Today’s event contributes to the formation of patriotic spirit among young people. Especially for future historians it is an important opportunity to realize the importance of studying the past and passing on knowledge to future generations. Students get acquainted with previously little-known facts, as well as with documents that are still kept under the “secret”. Such complex topics should become the object of research interest of students, – said the head of the department of publication of documents and scientific use of the State Archives Tatyana Shustova.

The main purpose of the round table is to preserve the memory of the severe historical trials experienced by the Kazakh people and to form the historical consciousness of the younger generation through comprehension of the fate of innocent victims of the totalitarian regime.

According to statistics, in 1920-1930th years more than 100 thousand people in Kazakhstan became victims of political repressions, about 25 thousand of them were sentenced to execution.

– This event has become a good tradition of our university and is held at a high level. Participation of teachers, students, archivists and representatives of administration makes these meetings a significant step in restoration of historical memory and a guide to the future. For the country to have a solid foundation, every citizen must know his history, – noted the Vice-Rector in his speech.

He also emphasized the importance of such events in the education of a patriotic generation that loves its homeland.