On April 15, AlmaU University became a vibrant hub of spring warmth, vivid colours, and cutting-edge technology. This year, AlmaU’s traditional annual Nauryz celebration was held under a profound and inspiring theme: “Nauryz of the Future – Traditions and a New Reality.” The event brought together university faculty, staff, students, and guests, demonstrating that centuries-old
customs can thrive harmoniously in the rhythm of the digital age.
A New Reality: From Artificial Intelligence to Traditional Heritage
The festive atmosphere was evident from the very first moments. The organisers invited guests to wear traditional national attire, creating a striking visual blend ofethnic motifs and contemporary style.
The highlight of the celebration was the bold fusion of cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology:
• AI Yurt and Video Spinner: These interactive zones offered guests a fresh perspective on familiar symbols of the celebration while creating futuristic digital content.
• “Nomad of the Future” Photo Booth: A popular attraction where everyone could capture a memorable moment in a unique, themed look.
• Artisan Fair: A dedicated space where craftspeople showcased authentic traditional jewellery, handmade souvenirs, felt products, and beautifully hand- painted tableware.
• AlmaU Shop: A special festive sale offered branded apparel and accessories at exclusive prices.
A Brilliant Debut: “AlmaU Nauryz Batyr” and “AlmaU Nauryz Aruy”
For the first time in the history of AlmaU’s Nauryz celebrations, the university hosted an exciting competition featuring AlmaU Nauryz Batyr and AlmaU Nauryz Aruy, with faculty members and university staff taking part. Six courageous batyrs and six graceful arus took to the main stage to showcase their strength of character, knowledge, creativity, and charisma. The support from
colleagues and student sections was incredible, with the hall erupting in applause after every performance. The enthusiastic response demonstrated that AlmaU’s greatest asset is its close-knit and talented community.
A Packed Programme and a Festive Dastarkhan
The celebrations took place in the southern parking area of the campus and the surrounding grounds, offering a variety of activities to suit every taste:
1. Sports and Competition (12:00-13:00): Competitions in kettlebell lifting, arm wrestling, the traditional Kazakh game of asyq atu, togyzkumalak, chess, table tennis, and a large-scale tug-of-war brought together dozens of enthusiastic participants.
2. Children’s Activity Area (12:30-13:30): Young guests enjoyed a range of fun activities, including hopscotch, face painting, and creative pavement art.
3. Cultural Energy (13:00-14:30): Ethno-fusion performances, an exciting dombra battle, interactive competitions with prizes, and the grand finale of the show programme brought the celebrations to a vibrant close.
4. Traditional Dastarkhan (14:30-15:30): The festivities concluded with a communal dastarkhan, where everyone had the opportunity to enjoy fragrant, fluffy plov, freshly made, hot and crispy baursaks, and traditional nauryz kozhe, a nourishing Kazakh dish associated with the spring holiday.
The AlmaU Nauryz celebrationonce again reaffirmed the university’s identity as a place that cherishes its roots, valuesmeaningful human connections, and boldly embraces the future.
Spring has arrived, everyone! Come, let’s celebrate Nauryz together!