During the event, as part of the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Culture and Information and the Union of Writers of Kazakhstan, a series of books by 20 young authors was presented, released within the framework of the project "Literary and Educational Panorama of Kazakhstan".
The event was attended by representatives of the creative intelligentsia, young authors, and members of the youth literary club "Alqa," established under the ministry.
“The Presidential Literary Award for young Kazakhstani writers and poets was established by a presidential decree in 2023 and has become one of the most significant events in the world of national literature and another step by the Head of State in fundamental transformations of the cultural sphere. Its main goal is to stimulate and support young creative individuals. Support for the cultural sector, particularly literature, aligns with the logic of the President's reforms and initiatives, who views the development of culture and art as one of the key factors in the holistic development of the younger generation and the formation of a strong and responsible society. In such a society, there will be Law and Order, accountability for one’s actions, respect for traditions, and reverence for values such as patriotism, hard work, and education,” noted Aida Balaeva.
The Minister emphasized that the promotion of national values is a responsible and honorable mission entrusted to writers. According to her, poets and authors are spiritual leaders who define the moral compass of society.
“Your task is not only to continue the legacy of great writers but also to elevate literature to a new level. While the literature of the 20th century deeply explored the inner world of humans, 21st-century writers must investigate the fate of the individual in the era of digital technology, globalization, preservation of national identity, and personal spiritual searches,” Aida Balaeva emphasized.
During the meeting, current literary trends were discussed, important issues were raised, and various proposals were voiced.
As a result of the special Presidential Literary Award for 2024, the winner in the "Prose" category was Esbol Sosialkhan for his work "2026," while the "Poetry" category was awarded to Ali Manov Zhanibek Bakytovich for his collection of poems "Boz Ushkat." The "Drama" category was won by the dramatic work "Apatay," authored by Aytuar Alisher Zhenisuly. The award in the "Children's Literature" category was given to Syzdikov Aset Zhenkovich for his novella "Rocket Era."
Authors aged 18 to 35 who had not previously submitted their works to international and national competitions were eligible to participate in the contest.
It should be noted that support for young writers remains a focal point.
Additionally, the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in collaboration with the Union of Writers of Kazakhstan, has implemented three new projects.
In particular, within the framework of the "Literary and Educational Panorama of Kazakhstan" project, young writers traveled across various regions of the country, creating new works. As a result of the project, 20 new works were added to Kazakh literature, and each young author received a fee of 4 million tenge.
Let us remind you that 2025 has been declared the Year of Working Professions. In this regard, a competition titled "Erlik pen enbek dastany" is being held to promote the significance of working professions.
Furthermore, the national literary award "Aybos" continues. Last year, 176 previously unpublished works were submitted for the competition in 7 categories.