Universities and educational institutions of Kazakhstan -
Educational tourism in Almaty and Almaty region -
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University is one of the most prestigious and oldest higher education institutions in Kazakhstan, a symbol of science, intelligence and progress of the country. The University is located at the foot of the picturesque mountains of the Trans–Ili Alatau, in the southern part of Almaty, and occupies a vast territory known as the "KazNU town" - a real academic city within the city. Faculties, scientific institutes, modern laboratories, sports complexes and student dormitories are concentrated here, creating a unique atmosphere for learning and development.
History
The history of the Kazakh National University began in 1934, when the young Kazakh Soviet Republic urgently faced the issue of training its own specialists. On January 15, 1934, by the decree of the Council of People's Commissars, the Kazakh State University was established – the first in the history of Kazakhstan.
At first, classes were held in small buildings in the center of Almaty, and the first faculties – biology, physics, mathematics and pedagogy - numbered only a few dozen students. Within a few years, the university became a center of attraction for scientists from different regions of the Soviet Union. Famous professors from Moscow, Leningrad, and Novosibirsk came here to teach, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of Kazakh science.
During the Great Patriotic War, the university did not stop working. Despite the difficulties, they continued to teach students, conduct research and help the front. Many graduates of those years went to war, and teachers participated in developments related to the military industry and medicine.
After the war, the university experienced a period of rapid growth. In the 1950s and 1960s, new faculties were opened – geography, philology, law, chemistry, and history. The university has become a forge of personnel for the whole republic. It was here that the foundations of Kazakh geology, ecology, Oriental studies, journalism and philosophy were laid.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the construction of a new university complex, the future Kazgugrad, began. It was a grandiose project: modern buildings, a library, laboratories, residential buildings and green alleys created a full-fledged university city. It has become not just a place of study, but a symbol of the enlightened future of Kazakhstan. In 1991, after the country gained independence, the university was named after the great thinker of the East, Al-Farabi. This decision was a landmark one: the wisdom of the ancient philosopher, who aspired to the harmony of reason and morality, perfectly coincided with the spirit of the university.
In 1993, the university received the status of a national university, and in 2001 it was recognized as the leading scientific center in Kazakhstan. Since then, the university has been actively developing international cooperation, opening new research areas and strengthening its position in the world rankings. Today, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University is rightfully considered one of the best universities in Central Asia. Tens of thousands of students study here, hundreds of doctors of sciences, academicians and professors work here, and KazNU's diploma is recognized in many countries of the world.
Architecture
The main building of KazNU is one of the most recognizable in Almaty. Its silhouette towering over the city has become an architectural symbol of science and enlightenment. A massive white stone tower with a golden spire is visible from afar, and the life of students, teachers and researchers is in full swing within its walls. The university campus impresses with its scale: green alleys, sports fields, cozy squares and modern buildings create harmony between nature and architecture. There are libraries, museums, a technology and innovation center, a planetarium, as well as its own botanical garden, where you can relax and be inspired by new ideas.
KazGUgrad university complex and city of the future
KazGUgrad Complex is the heart of KazNU and one of the most impressive student campuses in Central Asia. It occupies a huge territory, surrounded by greenery, and is a unique space where the academic environment, nature and culture are combined. There are faculties, libraries, laboratories, museums, student dormitories and cultural centers. Everything is connected by a single infrastructure: there are banks, cafes, shops, pharmacies, a medical center, gyms and even its own postal hub. Thanks to this, students live in a mini-city where everything is at hand, and at the same time feel like part of a large intellectual community.
How to get there and visit -
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazGU) is located in Almaty at 71 Al-Farabi Avenue, Bostandyk district, Republic of Kazakhstan. The entrance to the university is located from Temiryazev Street.
GPS coordinates: 43°13'30"N 76°55'21"E
It is very easy to get into the heart of student life in Almaty – KazNU. Choose any convenient way: buses № 30, 32, 45, 70, 79, 124, 205 or trolleybuses No. 7, 9, 11.
For more convenience, use a taxi or private transport.
Please note: not all faculties are located in the main building. Areas such as the Faculty of International Relations or the Military Department are based in other parts of the city, so be sure to check the exact address of your visit.
Contacts: +7 727 377 33 30; +7 727 377 33 33
The official website of the University
The legend and spirit of Al-Farabi
The name Al-Farabi has a special meaning. The great thinker said that the true happiness of man lies in knowledge, and perfection in the pursuit of goodness and truth. These words have become the philosophy of the university. It is said that everyone who crosses the threshold of the main building feels as if they are entering a temple of science. Everything here is imbued with the spirit of creativity, respect for wisdom and the eternal search for truth.
There is a beautiful legend associated with the Kazakh National University.It is said that the place where the main building of the Treasury now stands was not chosen by chance. According to an ancient legend, travelers and sages once stayed here, walking along mountain roads to the north, to ancient Otrar– the birthplace of Al-Farabi. They believed that this place holds a special energy of knowledge: the wind coming down from the mountains brings purity of thought, and the sun, reflected in the snow, illuminates the way for seekers of truth.
When the university was being built, the elders of the city said: "If a temple of science is built here, its walls will absorb the wisdom of the earth and the power of the mountains." That's what happened – KazNU has become a place where every student feels inspired and wants to grow.
Since then, there has been a popular belief among students: if you walk along Al-Farabi Alley before the exam, mentally thank them for their knowledge and look at the mountains, luck and clarity of mind will not leave you. And the teachers say that at night, when the university falls asleep, a quiet light seems to hover over the main building – a symbol that the spirit of Al-Farabi continues to preserve this place and guide those who seek the truth.
Interesting facts
• KazNU is the first university in Kazakhstan to receive national status.
• The KazGUgrad complex covers more than 100 hectares and is considered one of the largest educational centers in Central Asia.
• The University has its own TV studio, radio station and media holding.
• Students from more than 50 countries study at KazNU.
• The Al-Farabi Monument and the Philosophy Alley have become symbols of the university's inner world.
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