A large-scale meeting under the slogan "The Power of Law Begins with Consciousness" was held in Shymkent, bringing together over 500 students and law enforcement officials. The event became one of the most open platforms for direct dialogue between young people and government agencies.
Dialogue without intermediaries
The organizers eschewed the participation of experts and NGOs, giving students the opportunity to interact directly with those responsible for city security. Present in the hall were the Deputy Mayor of Shymkent, the heads of the police, the heads of the cybercrime departments, and the city prosecutor, Gabit Mukanov.
The conversation was lively, honest, and constructive: the young people came not to listen to lectures, but to discuss real problems.
Main topics of the meeting
Corruption.
Students asked questions about whistleblower protection, punishment for violators, and everyday manifestations of corruption. Prosecutor Gabit Mukanov emphasized that fighting corruption requires not only laws but also a new culture of values, which the younger generation can foster.
Internet fraud.
Over 60% of police reports today are related to online scams. Law enforcement officials discussed popular scams and protection measures, and students proposed creating a volunteer group for digital education.
Bullying.
A sensitive topic that touched upon most of the participants. They discussed psychological pressure, bullying in chat rooms, and the lack of effective response mechanisms. Deputy Akim Särsen Küranbek noted the need for teacher training and the creation of trusted channels for reporting complaints.
Gambling addiction.
Students discussed the growing addiction to online casinos. Law enforcement cited examples of closed underground gambling halls, and young people proposed strengthening prevention efforts: lectures, anonymous consultations, and social campaigns.
Social threats.
The topics of stress, depression, social media manipulation, and attempts to lure teenagers into destructive movements were discussed. Law enforcement officials emphasized the need for prevention and digital security.
Result: creation of the "Ambassadors of Change" movement
Following a three-hour discussion, students and government officials agreed to launch a new youth movement, "Ambassadors of Change." It will focus on legal education, bullying and gambling prevention, promoting anti-corruption values, digital security, and participating in joint projects with law enforcement.
The initiative will not be formal—the main emphasis will be on the real participation of young people in solving socially significant problems.
Speech by the city prosecutor
At the end of the meeting, Gabit Mukanov emphasized that respect for the law begins with personal responsibility, and that young people are capable of changing social norms faster than government reforms. He expressed confidence that the "Ambassadors of Change" will become an example of youth active participation in strengthening law and order.
Why the meeting was significant
• direct dialogue between students and government officials;
• frank discussion of “uncomfortable” topics;
• the willingness of law enforcement to listen and respond;
• launch of a new social movement;
• high youth involvement.
Youth is the driving force of change
The meeting demonstrated that students want to do more than just listen; they want to be partners with the state, participate in shaping a legal culture, and make the city safer.
The Ambassadors of Change project could mark the beginning of a new wave of civic activism and a modern understanding of the rule of law.