"The Dialogue of Traditions and Modernity": International Scientific and Practical Conference at ENU

The L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University has commenced an international scientific and practical conference titled "The Dialogue of Traditions and Modernity: Spiritual Culture as the Basis of National Identity." This academic event brings together domestic and international researchers, faculty members, and young scientists (doctoral and master's students) for a profound scientific examination of the significance of traditional culture and folk heritage in shaping contemporary national identity.

This scientific gathering is being implemented within the framework of the fundamental scientific program funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, titled "Research on the Social Role of Folk Art in Shaping Contemporary National Identity: Modification and Reconstruction of Spiritual Culture."

The university has become a major hub for academic discourse, where scholars comprehensively analyze the continuity of traditions and innovations, as well as mechanisms for preserving and passing on spiritual and cultural values to future generations. Particular attention is given to the transformation of traditional forms of folk art amid global social changes. Researchers are focusing on the processes of adaptation and how traditions are acquiring new dimensions in modern society.

Given the current landscape of globalization, rapid urbanization, and extensive cultural transit, the academic relevance of these topics is continually increasing. The modern social environment requires not only the conservation of cultural heritage but also the development of effective methods to integrate it into the worldview of the younger generation.

The work of the scientific-practical conference is conducted across four main dimensions:

Traditional ethnography and universal spiritual values;

National identity in the context of social transformations;

The impact of urbanization and global processes on national identity;

The continuity of traditions and contemporary development trends in folk art.

The conference operates in the format of plenary and breakout sessions. Furthermore, a special roundtable titled "Kazakhstani Identity as the Foundation of Intercultural Dialogue: Theory and Practice of Sociocultural Approaches" will be held at the "Nomadius" ethnographic complex located in the Burabay resort area.

During the roundtable, experts will discuss theoretical and practical issues related to preserving cultural diversity and fostering intercultural dialogue. The program also includes introducing participants to the rich historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage of Kazakhstan.

Alongside scholars from leading Kazakhstani universities, this large-scale international event is attended by academic representatives from Poland, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Brazil, China, and other nations. Such extensive geographical coverage facilitates the comparative study of various historical and cultural paradigms, broadens international scientific exchange, and substantially strengthens external academic ties.

Academic Highlight: As a significant scientific outcome of the gathering, there will be a presentation of a new textbook, "The Ritual Culture of the Kazakh People," authored by Zhambyl Artykbayev, Doctor of Historical Sciences and Professor at L.N. Gumilyov ENU. This fundamental work represents a substantial contribution to enhancing the university's scientific potential.