ALTAI – THE GOLDEN CRADLE OF THE TURKIC WORLD: AN INTERNATIONAL SPACE WHERE SCIENCE AND HISTORY COME TOGETHER

At Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University, the international scientific and practical conference “Altai – The Golden Cradle of the Turkic World” is being held, bringing together leading scholars and researchers from various countries. Today’s plenary session became a true synthesis of science and spirituality.

The Akim of East Kazakhstan Region, Nurymbet Amanovich Saktaganov, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the region’s significance in the history of the Turkic world and the importance of preserving its cultural heritage.
He noted that Altai is “the golden root of Turkic civilization and the source of the spirit of the Great Steppe,” stressing the need for a harmonious development of science and tourism.

The conference was moderated by Rector of the University, Mukhtar Tolegen, who stated:

“Altai is the core of Turkic civilization. This conference is not just a platform for scientific dialogue but a concrete step toward the revival of spiritual continuity.”

The first plenary lecture was delivered by Dr. Zeinolla Samashev, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, Honored Scientist of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and a renowned archaeologist.
In his report, “Contours of the Ancient History of Kazakh Altai,” the scholar presented the results of many years of archaeological research revealing the special place of Altai in the formation of Turkic civilization. Professor Samashev emphasized the importance of archaeological data and fieldwork and highlighted the spiritual value of national heritage.

A special moment of the conference was when Professor Samashev donated several authentic artifacts discovered during archaeological expeditions to the museum of Amanzholov University — a symbolic gesture reflecting deep respect for history and the continuity of generations.

With an insightful presentation titled “Altai and the Civilization of the Great Steppe: The Foundations of the Ethnocultural Development of the Turkic Peoples,” Professor Zhadash Dukenbayeva, Doctor of Historical Sciences from L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, analyzed the role of Altai in the ethnogenesis of Turkic peoples and the cultural unity of the Great Steppe.

Dr. Diana Spulber (PhD, University of Genoa, Italy) presented on “Cultural and Intercultural Competences,” highlighting the importance of mutual understanding and respect for cultural diversity in the era of globalization.

Professor Mehmet Ozturk from Mugla Sitki Kocman University (Turkey) delivered a scientific report titled “Determination of Physicochemical Properties, Bioactivity, and Chemotaxonomic Markers of Kazakh Honey: Assessment of Commercial Potential.”
He emphasized the high quality and biological activity of Kazakh honey, noting its competitiveness in the global market.

Researchers at Amanzholov University are also implementing a number of projects in materials science and physico-chemical research. The university’s laboratories are equipped with modern instruments allowing precise analysis of material composition and thermal characteristics.

In his concluding remarks, Rector Mukhtar Tolegen highlighted the strategic importance of scientific cooperation for regional development and international integration:

“Through such meetings, we enter the global scientific arena, opening new horizons for exploring the natural, historical, and cultural potential of the region. Altai is not only the spiritual cradle of the Turkic world but also a center of science and innovation.”

Within the framework of the conference, participants discussed prospects for tourism development, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable growth, and presented ideas for joint international projects.

Such scientific forums strengthen the international standing of Amanzholov University, creating unique opportunities for students and young researchers in the fields of global academic exchange and professional growth.