Shymkent is one of the first cities in the country to officially join the republican project "Reading Nation", the city's mayor Gabit Syzdykbekov announced.

At the third session of the National Congress held in Atyrau, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted: "The most direct way to become a thoughtful nation is to read books," and paid special attention to the issue of developing reading.

Supporting the President's initiative, the Speaker of the Majilis, Chairman of the AMANAT party, Yerlan Koshanov, recently officially announced the launch of the republican-level pilot project "Reading Nation". Among the regions where this important project will be implemented for the first time are the city of Shymkent, as well as the Karaganda and Kostanay regions.

The mayor of Shymkent, Gabit Syzdykbekov, expressed his support for this initiative and called on residents to actively participate:

"Shymkent is not only a metropolis of republican significance, it is a city with a deep history, rich culture, and a strong tradition of education. Therefore, the implementation of such an important project in our city is a natural fit. Books are an inexhaustible source of knowledge and inspiration. They broaden your horizons, shape your personality, and open up new opportunities. I urge each of you to support this noble initiative and take an active part," said the mayor.

The goal of the project is to form and promote a reading culture.

As part of the pilot project, city residents can participate in the competition in the following nominations:
• "School of Reading"
• "College for reading books"
• "The University of Reading"
• "The teacher who reads books"
• "The Book-Reading Family"
• "A civil servant who reads books"

The general requirement for participants is to read at least 15 books during the project and participate in the competition in their category. The winners will be determined by a special commission and awarded with certificates of honor and valuable prizes.

Who is implementing the project?

The project is being implemented by the AMANAT party in collaboration with the Reading Nation Public Foundation. The main sponsor is ALAGEUM ELECTRIC.

What is the importance of the project?

"Reading Nation" is not a one-time campaign, but a long-term project aimed at increasing the cultural level and thinking of the nation. The main goal of the project is to increase the intellectual potential of young people and develop human capital through reading.

The project will involve not only pupils and students, but also teachers and civil servants, and entire families. This is a comprehensive step aimed at connecting every member of society with books.