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Today, our university held a commemorative event titled “Son of the Turkistan Land”, dedicated to the life and work of Serik Zhailauuly Piraliyev, academician of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, and outstanding educator.

The event was organized to promote the exemplary life and achievements of this distinguished scholar among the younger generation and to ensure his name is remembered forever. It took place in the conference hall named in honor of Serik Piraliyev.

From 2003 to 2007, Serik Zhailauuly served as Rector of our university, dedicating his conscious life to science and education. He distinguished himself as a skilled leader, respected teacher, and exemplary individual.

The commemorative event was attended by the university administration, faculty members, Serik Zhailauuly’s family, representatives of the intellectual community familiar with him during his lifetime, as well as colleagues, friends, and students.

The spiritual part of the event was opened by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Muhittin Simsek. In his speech, he said:
"Thanks to Serik Zhailauuly’s leadership and integrity, we have achieved many successes. Where there is life, there is death, but his work and human qualities will remain in memory. Ahmet Yassawi University is not only a center of science and education, but also a symbol of brotherhood and spiritual connection. I first met Serik Zhailauuly in 2008. At that time, he told me: ‘This University is a joint educational center of Kazakhstan and Turkey. We believe in the future of this institution.’ Since then, 18 years have passed. A distinctive trait of Turkic peoples is sincerity and honesty, and Serik Zhailauuly became a vivid example of these qualities. He served the cause and the country with full dedication. Today we have gathered to respectfully remember his work and continue the path of integrity and responsibility."

Next, the university Rector Zhanar Temirbekova spoke:
"Mr. Muhittin spoke very impressively — indeed, the personal qualities of Serik Piraliyev, his contributions to the university, and the example he left for students serve as a model for us. We believe that the concept of ‘honest person,’ mentioned by our President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, applies precisely to such people. Serik Piraliyev was an initiator of good deeds during his life and continues to inspire good actions even after his passing. One proof of this is the opening of the Serik Piraliyev Conference Hall in September 2023. This tradition has since continued beautifully: the number of lecture halls named after prominent figures has increased. Halls named after Rayimbek Seitmetov, Lesbek Tashimov, Seyithali Maduanuly, Saparbak Yergobek, and others were opened. This demonstrates respect for those who made a significant contribution to national science and spirituality. As the saying goes, ‘The name of a hero lives in the memory of the people’ — the path of Serik Piraliyev has become an example for us. We also express special gratitude to his wife, Sofia, who initiated the opening of this hall."

Following this, Muhittin Simsek and Rector Zhanar Temirbekova presented commemorative gifts to Serik Zhailauuly’s wife, Sofia Suyunbayeva.

The event continued with recollections from colleagues and friends about Serik Zhailauuly. Attendees shared vivid memories of his contributions to science and education, as well as his high moral qualities.

During the commemorative event, books about Serik Piraliyev’s life and scientific heritage were presented, including “Serik Piraliyev: Exemplary Life”, “Benevolent Soul”, and Serik Zhailauuly’s own work, “For Competitive Education.”

Additionally, in order to honor the educator’s dedication to the field of education and his contribution to nurturing the younger generation, special scholarships named after Serik Piraliyev were established, with eight top students being awarded.

The exemplary life of Serik Zhaylauuly Piraliyev and his contributions to science and education will remain a model for the younger generation. His name and work will be forever preserved in the history of the university and will continue to inspire good deeds in the future.