Nauryz Celebration at KazNMU Blends AI with Kazakh Heritage

Nauryz, one of Central Asia's oldest festivals, marks the renewal of nature and the start of a new year. The holiday celebrates harmony between people and the world around them. This year, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) hosted a special event blending tradition with modern technology.

The celebration took place on March 18 as part of the 'Nauryznama' decade, a ten-day cultural programme running from March 14 to 23. Each day focuses on different themes, from spirituality to national heritage. This particular day was dedicated to traditional Kazakh clothing.

Faculty from the Department of Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Chemistry joined students from the School of Pharmacy for the event. Performances included recitals of Kazakh poetry and the traditional *küy* 'Balbyrauyn', played by students in national dress. A theatrical presentation also explored the 'Syrga Salu' ritual, offering insights into its cultural meaning. One highlight was a fashion show that merged artificial intelligence with tradition. Organisers used AI to project the faces of students and staff onto digital models wearing classic Kazakh costumes. The aim was to show how heritage clothing can fit into contemporary fashion. The event closed with *Bata beru*, a blessing ceremony where elders offered words of wisdom to younger participants. This tradition underscores respect for age and the passing of knowledge between generations.

The Nauryz celebration at KazNMU brought together education, technology, and cultural pride. By combining AI with traditional dress and music, the university highlighted the enduring relevance of Kazakh heritage. The event reinforced values of unity and continuity that define the holiday.