AKBAUYR: AMANZHOLOV UNIVERSITY STUDENTS INITIATED INTO ARCHAEOLOGY

First-year students of the “History and Social Studies” educational program at Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University completed their field practice at the historical and archaeological complex Akbauyr and took part in the traditional “Initiation into Archaeology” ceremony.

The event was attended by Vice-Rector for Educational and Social Work Zhanneta Kalimoldina, Dean of the Higher School of Humanities Slyambek Orazalin, as well as faculty members from the Department of History of Kazakhstan and Social and Humanitarian Disciplines.

— The main goal of the practice is to teach students the basics of archaeology. At the university, they gain theoretical knowledge, and here they acquire hands-on experience. The students conducted excavations of Saka settlements from the Early Iron Age, discovered ceramic fragments, animal bones, and stone tools. They were also introduced to new technologies used in archaeology, such as aerial photography and the basics of geodesy, — said Maksim Polovtsev, a representative of the East Kazakhstan Regional Museum of History and Local Lore and head of the practice.

The “Initiation into Archaeology” ceremony is a traditional event for students taking part in archaeological excavations for the first time. Held at the conclusion of the practice, it is a meaningful cultural event that unites all participants. The ceremony began with a concert program. Students presented performances that included songs, dances, sketches, and a fashion show titled “ArchaeoLook.” In this creative contest, participants crafted unique outfits using improvised materials in field conditions.

The second part of the event was a relay. Students searched for hidden objects around the complex and overcame various challenges.

— The students not only gained invaluable experience but also showcased their creativity. The relay helped them understand that being an archaeologist means being able to work under any conditions, showing patience and perseverance, — said Kuralay Zhirindinova, faculty member of the Department of History of Kazakhstan and Social and Humanitarian Disciplines and head of the practice.

At the end of the event, winners were awarded prizes and monetary rewards. Special nominations were also presented to the most active students.

It is worth noting that, as part of the university’s collaboration with the East Kazakhstan Regional Museum of History and Local Lore, future historians take part in excavations alongside renowned archaeologists at sites such as Akbauyr, Berel, and Shilikti.