Abai’s concept of “Tolyk Adam” (the “Perfect Human”) is not only wisdom from the past but, above all, a conceptual foundation for the present and future. This idea was voiced by Akmaryal Smagulova, PhD in Philology and head of the Research Center “Abai and National Spirituality” at Shakarim University, during the Republican Youth Forum held on May 23–24 at Shakarim University.

In her presentation titled “The Teachings on the Perfect Human as a Mainstream of 21st-Century Education,” the speaker emphasized that the concept developed by Abai back in the 19th century is today being transformed into a real educational model that is highly relevant in our time.

“In light of current challenges, the integration of this teaching into the education system becomes a key tool in fostering a harmonious, moral individual striving for self-improvement,” she noted.

Smagulova also pointed out that the incorporation of spiritual values into educational content is not merely an element of character development, but a foundation of national strategy. According to her, Abai’s ideas should be integrated into curricula, student psychological support programs, leadership initiatives, and teaching methodologies — in all areas where personality formation takes place.

“Young people should not only gain knowledge but also reflect on what it means to be human. This teaching must become not just a course, but an internal life position. Only then can we build a conscious society,” said Akmaryal Smagulova.

During her presentation, several key projects initiated by Shakarim University were also introduced as institutional mechanisms for practically implementing Abai’s philosophy in education and science:

• The educational module “Abai – Shakarim – Modernity”,

• A special grant program called “Zhas Tulga” (Young Figure),

• The interactive digital platform “Zhas Abai Zholy” (The Path of Young Abai),

• The Center for the Philosophy and Ethics of the Perfect Human.

Akmaryal Smagulova’s presentation was one of the most substantive contributions to the forum, presenting Abai’s teachings not as ideological quotations, but as a systematic response to the strategic demands of our time.

Forum participants perceived her speech as a clear developmental vector for youth policy, moral education, and the future of educational content.

At the forum, which brought together representatives from more than 70 universities across the country, a clear conclusion emerged: Abai’s teachings on the Perfect Human truly form the core of Kazakhstan’s national educational policy.