An exhibition dedicated to Republic Day and the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence has opened at the National Museum of Kazakhstan. It tells the stories of outstanding compatriots – scientists and artists who have contributed to the country’s development. The exhibition titled «Figures on the Pedestal of Independence: Representatives of Science and Culture» features their personal belongings, works, awards, photographs and archival materials. It aims to introduce the younger generation to the legacy of talented Kazakh citizens. Among those featured are Assanali Ashimov, Bulat Ayukhanov, Kenes Sagadiyev, Kemel Akishev, Roza Rymbayeva, and Kunsulu Zakarya. For the Doctor of Biological Sciences, a passion for research began in childhood. Her mother taught chemistry for more than half a century and inspired her daughter’s interest in the natural sciences. This was followed by science olympiads and her first research projects. Over time, this interest grew into a calling. During the coronavirus pandemic, Kunsulu Zakarya led the development of the QazVac vaccine. The project marked an important achievement for domestic science and demonstrated the capabilities of Kazakh specialists in combating dangerous infections.
«Thanks to the strong support of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the law on biological safety of the Republic of Kazakhstan was adopted. As part of this, the national holding KazBioPharm was established. The institutes that are part of KazBioPharm have developed more than 50 different vaccines in the fields of veterinary medicine and healthcare. Some of these vaccines are exported to neighbouring countries, showcasing the achievements of our science both at home and abroad,» noted Kunsulu Zakarya, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Laureate of Al-Farabi Science and Technology State Prize.
Uzbekali Dzhanibekov holds a special place in the history of Kazakhstan. He devoted his life to studying national culture and traditions. At his initiative, the celebration of Nauryz was revived in the country in 1988. He also advocated the restoration of historical monuments, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the ancient city of Otyrar. The scholar paid particular attention to restoring the names and works of forgotten figures, particularly those of the Alash movement. With Uzbekali Dzhanibekov’s involvement, museums were opened, folklore and ethnographic ensembles were established, and traditional crafts of the Kazakh people were studied.
«He was born in the Turkistan region, Otyrar district, near Otyrar and the archaeological excavations that were constantly being carried out there. This shaped him from an early age. This is the homeland of Al-Farabi, as well as renowned composers, singers and artists, including Mukhtar Shakhanov and Shamshi Kaldayakov. Restorers, artists and historians would visit every day, every evening. He would work with them and engage in discussions. They would draw and write, doing most of this work at home,» said Bauyrzhan Dzhanibekov, son of statesman and public figure Uzbekali Dzhanibekov.

