Instilling National Cultural Practices in Education System
Reimagining Tradition: The Ethnocamp 'Atameken' at M. Auezov's School-Gymnasium No. 86
Last week, School-Gymnasium No. 86, affectionately known as "Yel吴宗No. 86", hosted an educational bash titled "National Heritage - A Legacy for the Generations". The event sought to acquaint summer campers with the Kazakh culture, art, and ignite creativity and intellectual prowess in the budding minds.
On this momentous occasion, teachers showcased some traditional skills, enthralling both students and visitors with demonstrations of weaving, spinning, wool felting, carpet weaving, and beadwork. The stage was set for a riveting day filled with craft-making, national games, and even modern science experiments!
The primary objective of the "Atameken" ethnocamp was to deepen the understanding of Kazakh traditions and culture. In the spirit of preserving heritage, a mini yurt was erected on the school premises adorned with classic Kazakh patterns and decorated with traditional household items. Children got a firsthand look into the rich culture and lifestyle of their ancestors. This educational journey transcended mere knowledge acquisition, breathed life into traditions. More than a dozen masterclasses were conducted to feed the collective curiosity.
The "World of Chess" and "Algebra of Nomads" (togyzqumalaq) workshops were designed to challenge and stretch the intellectual capacity of attendees, helping them improve adaptability in thinking. The "Bilim Boost" workshop focused on sharpening focus, enhancing memory, and augmenting learning speed. The "Digital Future" workshop allowed students to explore the basics of programming and create their very own digital projects.
Artistic talents were exercised and nurtured in the "ART Studio", "Asem Ornek", and "Asem Tas" workshops, where children drew, sewed, and fashioned national crafts. For those interested in vocal arts, the "Star Path" and "Happy Notes" workshops offered singing lessons, stage culture, and rhythm training. In the "Ethno Games" workshop, students learned traditional games, while logopedics and defectology exercises in "Shyngdal" focused on speech and pronunciation.
The enthusiastic director of School-Gymnasium No. 86, Gulmira ORAZBEKOVA, shared her thoughts on the successful event. Parents, whose children had experienced the Ethnocamp firsthand, reported a remarkable blend of fun and fruitful learning. Altyngul Shamshaeva, a mother, admired the engaging activities that not only entertained her child but also fostered camaraderie and creativity.
The event's impact was evident in the positive reactions from both students and parents, making the school's teachers strongly advocate for similar events during the academic year. So mark your calendars, because while the Ethnocamp has concluded for this summer, its inspiring legacy continues to thrive!
Reported by Asel Jumagulova – Photographed by Nurlan Mergaliev
- The ethnocamp 'Atameken' at School-Gymnasium No. 86 aimed not only to educate children about Kazakh traditions and culture but also to foster their lifestyle, promoting a holistic education-and-self-development approach.
- In addition to traditional skill demonstrations and craft-making, the ethnocamp also offered modern workshops like "World of Chess", "Algebra of Nomads", and "Digital Future", bridging the gap between Kazakh heritage and contemporary lifestyle.
