Students from Ualikhanov University actively took part in the National Volunteer Forum held in the capital, attended by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Representing the university were Zhibek Mutallabova, a fourth-year student at the Agrotechnical Institute and one of the founders of the “Meyirim” volunteer organization, and Natalia Kazhmuratova, a second-year student at the Pedagogical Institute and Deputy Director of the university’s “Phoenix” Volunteer Center.
This forum was a historic moment for volunteers, particularly as 2026 has been declared the International Year of Volunteers. The initiative was originally proposed by President Tokayev at the 75th session of the UN General Assembly. Kazakhstan’s proposal received wide international support, underscoring the global importance of volunteerism and recognizing the vital role volunteers play worldwide.
In his address, the President emphasized that volunteers are responsible and proactive patriots, contributing meaningfully to national development. He highlighted the pivotal role of volunteers in areas such as environmental protection, education, social support, and the promotion of civic responsibility and a culture of mutual aid.
Declaring 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers, he noted,
reinforces the relevance and importance of volunteer work at both national and international levels.
Volunteerism at Ualikhanov University is growing in a structured and sustainable way. In addition to “Meyirim” and “Phoenix,” the Higher Medical School is home to the “Kazakhstan Medical Youth” organization, the Pedagogical Institute hosts “Alpha,” and the recently established “Kamkor” organization has joined the university’s volunteer network. These groups actively contribute not only to university life but also to socially significant initiatives across the Akmola Region, demonstrating a tangible impact on the community.
As President Tokayev highlighted, volunteerism goes beyond providing help - it is a meaningful form of service to society and the nation, reflecting true dedication to one’s homeland. Students at Ualikhanov University continue to demonstrate civic responsibility and commitment through their active involvement in social initiatives, embodying the values of service and patriotism.
We are proud of our students’ civic engagement and their unwavering dedication to creating positive change in society!
