ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the importance of the Kazakh language as a factor of national unity, calling for stronger efforts to expand its use in education, culture and digital technologies, during the 10th congress of the International Kazakh Language Society on Nov.
10. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev delivers a speech at the 10th congress of the International Kazakh Language Society, held ahead of the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence. Photo credit: Akorda. The congress is taking place ahead of the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence.
Tokayev described the occasion as a historic milestone, noting that the country had made significant progress in strengthening the country since gaining independence. “We have established ourselves as a united nation, laid the foundations of our country and continued to strengthen them,” he said.
President Tokayev also cautioned against assuming that all challenges related to safeguarding independence had been resolved. Amid growing political, economic and ideological tensions worldwide, he said Kazakhstan’s response should be to strengthen unity and focus on shared national interests.
Kazakh language as a Constitutional priority He said the new Constitution clearly defines the country’s historical roots, national identity and future direction, while firmly establishing the constitutional status of Kazakh as the state language. “Therefore, treating the Kazakh language with respect is a civic and moral duty,” he said.
Tokayev stressed that the development of the Kazakh language is closely linked to the country’s broader economic and technological progress. “If we become a strong, civilized state with a developed economy, leading innovations and technologies, and international recognition, the Kazakh language will also become a strong language,” he said.
“As the country’s standing grows, so does the prestige of its state language. This is a fact.” Kazakh-language education and cultural production expand Tokayev also highlighted progress in education and cultural production. This year, 71% of children entering school were enrolled in Kazakh-language classes, while the number of Kazakh-language departments in colleges and universities has also increased.