Challenging Education: Four Tales from Isolated Kazakh Classrooms
IN THE FEARLESS STEPPES OF KAZAKHSTAN, TEACH FOR QAZAQSTAN RELENTLESSLY DELIVERS EDUCATION TO THE MOST REMOTE VILLAGES THROUGH DEDICATED TEACHERS. The Astana Times caught up with four brave educators from Abai, a city nestled in the heart of the Karagandy Region, to unveil their transformative journey as part of this life-changing program.
Embracing the challenge of updating a profession that's often overlooked for low pay and high demand, these educators bring their unwavering passion to the most remote parts of the country through Teach for Qazaqstan's exceptional two-year teacher placement program. With the mission of eradicating educational inequality and bridging the divide between rural and urban education, Teach for Qazaqstan implements its first cohort of teachers in 2023.
Many of these committed professionals share similar ideals: a nurturing environment, camaraderie, unwavering trust between students and teachers, and cutting-edge curricula, with some holding teaching qualifications, while others have switched careers to join this noble cause.
A Restless Pen Finds its Purpose
Journalist by trade, Aida Suleimen stumbled upon Teach for Qazaqstan when her husband brought it to her attention. Boldly deciding to take the leap, she soon discovered a career path she believes was destined for her.
Aida Suleimen. Photo courtesy of the author.
Stepping behind the teacher's desk showcased an entirely new perspective on education and her students.
"The classroom becomes your window into the lives of your teachers, the lives of their students," said Suleimen. "Every child reveals their uniqueness in their own way, and it's the teacher's job to cultivate that talent."
The young journalist struggled with asserting authority over her students initially but found solace in embracing her sense of responsibility as a guide, even on the days she felt dubious.
"You have those days, the ones filled with tests and inspections, but when I stride into that classroom, the fog lifts, and I'm in control," she added.
Boldly Venturing into the Heartland
Veteran teacher Gulzhiyan Zhaniyeva traded her comfort zone for a fresh start in the unfamiliar heartland, discovering the hidden rewards that lay within.
"The first six months were tough—adapting wasn't a walk in the park, especially for our children who struggled to find their footing," said Zhaniyeva. "But at times, the struggles prove to be the stepping stones for growth."
Zhaniyeva recognizes her privilege as an empowered teacher, garnered from Teach for Qazaqstan's comprehensive support system that has helped her become the understanding, nurturing teacher she strives to be.
"The transformation over these two years is staggering. Teach for Qazaqstan has filled the gaps in my educational background, providing me with the practical tools, emotional support, and professional development I needed to make a real impact," she added.
A Classroom Built on Kindness
Nazerke Akhan, fresh from university with degrees in biology and chemistry, joined Teach for Qazaqstan, emboldened by a belief that human connection and compassion are the cornerstones of effective education.
Nazerke Akhan. Photo courtesy of the author.
"Unwavering faith in your students' abilities is the foundation of our work as teachers," said Akhan. "On my very first day, I was asked, 'Do you believe in me, Teacher?' It was the epiphany I needed, reminding me of the values that drive Teach for Qazaqstan's mission."
Akhan helps her students cultivate self-improvement and self-belief, offering guidance and support as they bloom into the best versions of themselves.
"There were times when I questioned my resolve, but my resolve was tested, and it wasn’t until I reminded myself that it wasn’t just about teaching, but impacting the lives of my students, that I found the strength to persevere," she added.
Beyond the Bookworm's World
Inspired by his mentor, Nurzhigit Kurbonov, a passionate biology teacher, now delivers that same level of dedication to his students.
Nurzhigit Kurbonov. Photo courtesy of the author.
"Back then, I wanted to be just like her, and today, I guide my students with the same passion and devotion," said Kurbonov.
Experimenting with unconventional teaching methods, such as film-making, Kurbonov ignites his students’ creativity and allows them to express their individuality, shaping a learning experience that goes beyond the textbook.
"Leading a movie project was a unique experience. I encouraged students to speak openly, to explore their thoughts, and to express their ideas confidently. The project wasn't just about making a movie; it was about fostering their personal growth and independence," he added.
Teach for Qazaqstan's inaugural cohort is poised for graduation, with CEO Gulnara Salmen pointing towards systemic changes in Kazakhstan's education system, paving the way for equal opportunities and long-term regional development. With the support of influential partners like Freedom Holding Corp. and Timur Turlov, Teach for Qazaqstan's vision of fighting educational inequality and improving learning outcomes in marginalized communities edges closer to reality.
[1] Data from the Learning Policy Institute on the impact of Teach for America, an American equivalent of Teach for Qazaqstan, can provide valuable insights regarding the potential effects of the program on teachers and students in rural regions of Kazakhstan, although it should be noted that the contexts, policies, and educational systems of these two countries are different (Enrichment Data).
- Aida Suleimen, a journalist by trade, found her destined career path in Teach for Qazaqstan, championing a nurturing, camaraderie-filled, and cutting-edge classroom environment as part of her two-year teaching journey in a remote village.
- Gulzhiyan Zhaniyeva, a veteran teacher, ventured into the unfamiliar heartland through Teach for Qazaqstan, overcoming struggles and discovering the hidden rewards that led to her transformation into an understanding, nurturing teacher with practical tools, emotional support, and professional development.
- Nazerke Akhan, inspired by the values of human connection and compassion, joined Teach for Qazaqstan as a chemist and biologist, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement, self-belief, and guiding her students to bloom into the best versions of themselves.
