The International Cultural and Scientific Symposium titled “Artisans (Akhilik) in the Footsteps of Khoja Akhmed Yassawi” has successfully concluded at our university.
This significant event was jointly organized by our university, the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Turkey, the AK Parti (Justice and Development Party) Presidency for Relations with Turkic States, the Turkistan Region Akimat, Kırsehir Ahi Evran University, and the Khoja Akhmed Yassawi Cooperation and Development Association.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Vice Chairman of AK Parti, Head of AK Parti’s Presidency for Relations with Turkic States, Member of Parliament for Ankara, Professor Dr. Kursad Zorlu, noted:
“We held a highly important event in Turkistan. This work was accomplished through the joint efforts of many dedicated individuals. Our main goal was to promote the legacy of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and his student Ahi Evran. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this meaningful endeavor.
Khoja Akhmed Yassawi University is one of Kazakhstan’s most significant higher education institutions. If Turkistan is the spiritual capital of the Turkic world, then I believe Khoja Ahmed Yasawi University is its academic center. I would like to thank the university leadership and staff for their contribution to organizing this important event.”
During the ceremony, the guest presented the “Turkic World Akhilik – Honor” award to Rector Zhanar Temirbekova. This award was also granted to the Akim of Turkistan Region Nuralkhan Kusherov, Chairman of the Board of Trustees Muhittin Simsek, and Member of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Professor Dr. Darkhan Kydyrali.
In addition, Professors İlhan Sahin and Mehmet Fatih Koksal were awarded the “Turkic World Akhilik – Science” prize. Talented individuals also received the “Turkic World Akhilik – Master Artisan” and “Turkic World Akhilik – Young Talent” awards.
As part of the symposium, scholars delivered presentations across four sessions on important topics. They examined the Akhilik tradition in connection with the spiritual teachings of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, sharing scientific perspectives that highlight the shared cultural identity of the Turkic world.
An opening ceremony for the Akhilik exhibition stands was also held. Around 20 artisans presented their works in a special exhibition, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions of Turkic craftsmanship.
Furthermore, cultural events held within the framework of the symposium featured concert programs and theatrical performances, leaving a profound spiritual impression on participants.
The symposium also marked an important milestone for international cooperation. Memorandums of understanding were signed between our university and Ankara Social Sciences University, Kırsehir Ahi Evran University, Karabük University, Nevsehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University, Suleyman Demirel University, Igdır University, and İzmir Bakırcay University.
Thus, the symposium made a significant contribution to strengthening spiritual, cultural, and scientific ties across the Turkic world. The partnerships and joint initiatives established during this large-scale event will undoubtedly continue and develop into fruitful future projects.
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