sdsn youth kazakhstan
Sustainability in Stories
Volume V. December 2024
"Myn Shyraq"
Author: Aruzhan Amirzhanova
"Myn Shyraq" and the Power of Soft Skills
Ali Mukhamet and Nuray Kossybek, the minds behind the "Myn Shyraq" project, shared their experiences leading a unique initiative aimed at transforming education in rural areas of Kazakhstan. "Myn Shyraq" introduces rural students to extracurricular activities, mentoring, and skills development workshops. Through this innovative program, Ali and Nuray help students explore their interests, develop crucial soft skills, and, most importantly, build confidence in their own potential.
Education is often considered the key to unlocking a person’s potential. However, not all students have equal access to the resources and opportunities necessary to enhance that potential.
In Kazakhstan, the gap between educational opportunities in urban and rural areas is especially stark. Students in rural areas often miss out on extracurricular activities, mentorship, and skills that prepare them for the future. Recognizing this inequality, Ali Mukhamet and Nuray Kossybek launched the "Myn Shyraq" project to help rural students discover and unlock their potential.
The Spark Behind "Myn Shyraq"
Both Ali and Nuray deeply understand the challenges of growing up in rural Kazakhstan. Opportunities for personal development beyond the traditional classroom are often limited in these regions. The idea for "Myn Shyraq" emerged after they noticed that rural students often lack awareness about career opportunities and, because of limited exposure, struggle to imagine who they could become. The absence of such opportunities stifles creativity and personal growth, making it hard for students to identify their strengths and interests.
“Rural children are not given the chance to try and experiment with new things,” Nuray says. “Even if their curriculum includes subjects like science or biology, they don’t have the equipment to do experiments. This lack of hands-on learning and soft skills development is what inspired us to create the ‘Myn Shyraq’ project.”
Soft Skills and Extracurricular Activities
"Myn Shyraq" focuses on exposing rural students to a wide range of extracurricular activities. These range from rocket science and science workshops to debate, art, and dance. Through these activities, students not only gain practical skills but also develop important soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for success in any career, but traditional education systems often emphasize hard skills while neglecting soft ones.
A key feature of the program is the formation of student-led clubs. Within two weeks, mentors are invited to teach new skills and help students explore their interests. The program includes a variety of masterclasses—from learning English to the art of videography—allowing students to try new things. Ali and Nuray emphasize that the goal of these diverse experiences is to let students explore their interests freely, without the pressure of having to decide on a future career right away.
In addition to clubs, "Myn Shyraq" organizes festivals where students can showcase what they've learned. These events not only boost students' confidence but also allow parents and teachers to see different sides of the children outside of the classroom. The festivals give children the opportunity to take pride in their achievements and gain support from their community—an important step in building self-esteem.
In addition to clubs, "Myn Shyraq" organizes festivals where students can showcase what they've learned. These events not only boost students' confidence but also allow parents and teachers to see different sides of the children outside of the classroom. The festivals give children the opportunity to take pride in their achievements and gain support from their community—an important step in building self-esteem.
“Our goal is not just to educate, but to inspire,” Nuray shared. “By showing them that they’re capable of more than they think, we can change how they see the future. For many children, this is the first time they’ve had the chance to do something different from their daily routine or try something completely new.”
Lasting Impact: The Post-Program Phase
One of "Myn Shyraq’s" core strengths is its focus on sustainability. After each two-week program ends, students can continue developing their skills through newly formed clubs. Some even express interest in becoming club leaders, further developing their leadership skills and ensuring the program’s continuity.
The team also works closely with teachers, providing them with the resources needed to support clubs and continue activities after the program ends. By involving teachers and encouraging them to serve as club leaders, "Myn Shyraq" extends its impact beyond the initial masterclasses.
The team also works closely with teachers, providing them with the resources needed to support clubs and continue activities after the program ends. By involving teachers and encouraging them to serve as club leaders, "Myn Shyraq" extends its impact beyond the initial masterclasses.
“We want the changes we make to be long-term,” says Nuray. “Just visiting a school for a few weeks and leaving isn’t enough. We need to help students and teachers continue what we started. That’s why we prioritize mentorship and long-term support.”
Additionally, "Myng Shyraq" is developing an online platform that connects mentors and mentees, offering students continued guidance and support beyond the in-person workshops.
Early Success Stories
"Myn Shyraq" already boasts several success stories. One notable example is a group of students from a rural school who participated in a debate club. Initially shy and unsure of themselves, the students developed strong argumentation skills and self-confidence through the program. Later, they took part in a local debate tournament, earning second and third place, and surprising even themselves.
“One girl didn’t even know she could draw,” Nuray recalls. “When we gave her professional art supplies, she discovered a passion for drawing. These are the kinds of moments that make this project truly valuable.”
Another remarkable story came from the rocket-building club. Students who had doubted their abilities were amazed at how much they achieved in a short time. When they launched their rockets and saw them fly farther than expected, they were astonished. These experiences not only sparked interest but also boosted the students’ belief in their own capabilities.
“One girl didn’t even know she could draw,” Nuray recalls. “When we gave her professional art supplies, she discovered a passion for drawing. These are the kinds of moments that make this project truly valuable.”
Another remarkable story came from the rocket-building club. Students who had doubted their abilities were amazed at how much they achieved in a short time. When they launched their rockets and saw them fly farther than expected, they were astonished. These experiences not only sparked interest but also boosted the students’ belief in their own capabilities.
Looking Ahead
Despite its successes, the "Myng Shyraq" team has ambitious plans for the future. One of their goals is to expand the program to reach even more rural schools across Kazakhstan. They have already partnered with the FURO organization, which focuses on equipping rural schools, to provide schools with the resources needed to implement similar programs.
"Myn Shyraq" also plans to expand its mentorship platform to support high school students through the university application process and help them choose future careers. The team envisions a future where all rural students have the opportunity to develop their skills and pursue their interests.
Ali’s motto, “We rise by lifting others,” perfectly captures the mission of the "Myn Shyraq" project and its dedication to improving education in Kazakhstan. As he points out, real change begins within society itself—we must each take initiative and work toward a better future for the younger generation.
By providing rural students with the resources, support, and opportunities they need, "Myn Shyraq" is playing a crucial role in breaking down barriers to quality education and building an inclusive and sustainable future for the youth of Kazakhstan.
Ali’s motto, “We rise by lifting others,” perfectly captures the mission of the "Myn Shyraq" project and its dedication to improving education in Kazakhstan. As he points out, real change begins within society itself—we must each take initiative and work toward a better future for the younger generation.
By providing rural students with the resources, support, and opportunities they need, "Myn Shyraq" is playing a crucial role in breaking down barriers to quality education and building an inclusive and sustainable future for the youth of Kazakhstan.