On April 17, 2026, the Republican Subject Olympiad in “History of Kazakhstan” among students of non-history educational programs was successfully held in Astana at the S. Seifullin Kazakh Agro Technical Research University. The intellectual competition was organized in cooperation with the Astana City Archive and the National Innovation Center “Bilim-Orkenieti.”

This Olympiad stood out due to its unique concept and format. It was the first large-scale national project conducted within the framework of the compulsory “History of Kazakhstan” course, bringing together students from non-history majors. Such approach enhances interdisciplinary connections in higher education and broadens students’ historical awareness across various fields of study. The main objective of the Olympiad was to increase students’ interest in the history of Kazakhstan, stimulate their academic and research engagement, and support the development of creative and intellectual potential among talented youth. The event was also dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the Institute of Humanities and Pedagogical Sciences, adding academic and educational significance to the initiative.

Approximately 20 teams from leading universities   across the country participated in the competition. Among them were   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Karaganda Buketov Research University, Kazakh National University of   Sport, Astana Medical University, Shakarim University, Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University, Aktobe Regional University named after K. Zhubanov,  Astana International University, International Engineering and Technological University,  A.K. Kussayinov Eurasian Humanities Institute, and Turan-Astana University. This confirms the high national status of the Olympiad and its importance in strengthening academic cooperation among universities. The Olympiad was conducted offline and consisted in four stages. During the “Presentation” stage, teams introduced themselves creatively through video presentations with historical and patriotic themes. The “Historical Dictation” stage assessed participants’ text analysis skills. The “Captains’ Competition” evaluated knowledge and logical thinking, while the “Recognize the Personality” stage required teams to identify historical figures and provide comprehensive analytical insights about them.

Our university was represented by the first-year student team “METU ORDA,” which respectively showcased its academic competence and preparation. According to the results, all team captains received diplomas, and scientific supervisors were awarded certificates of appreciation. Our team was honored with the nomination “For Historical Literacy,” demonstrating a high level of knowledge and intellectual capacity. This achievement is the result of students’ systematic preparation, dedication, and the effective guidance of faculty members. It also reflects the strong institutional support that encourages students’ active participation in academic and intellectual activities.

We express our sincere gratitude to the Rector of the University Darkhan B. Akpanbetov
for comprehensive support in organizing the team and facilitating their participation in this national-level competition. Such support plays a crucial role in enhancing students’ professional development, competitiveness, and overall quality of education. Participation in such Olympiads goes beyond demonstrating academic knowledge. It plays a vital role in shaping students’ outlook and personal development. Intellectual competitions foster a strong motivation for learning, encourage continuous self-improvement, and enhances key competencies such as teamwork, communication, and responsibility.