#Kazakhstan #Bulat Utemuratov #Shabyt Center #Zhezkazgan

Shabyt Creative Center in Zhezkazgan: A New Dawn for Youth

On June 4, 2026, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation marked International Children's Day with the grand opening of the Shabyt Creative Center in Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. This state-of-the-art facility represents the most significant children's establishment in the area for over 70 years. The center was gifted to the city following extensive construction, with a total investment of $7.7 million, aimed at providing modern educational and recreational resources for children in the region.

Facilities and Offerings

The Shabyt Creative Center encompasses a 2,600 square meter complex located in Zhezkazgan's western district. It is designed to accommodate up to 250 children, featuring 14 classrooms and specialized areas for diverse learning experiences. Noteworthy amenities include a STEM unit dedicated to robotics, mathematics, and science, along with an art studio, pottery workshop, digital design lab, and a music room. In addition, there are dedicated spaces for chess and martial arts, dance studios, and an expansive multi-purpose hall.

This center is not just about traditional education; it embraces a holistic approach, allowing children to explore various interests and talents. The facility operates several shifts to serve up to 600 children daily, making activities freely accessible to all participants. Furthermore, the center boasts outdoor sports and play areas, as well as landscaped public spaces, encouraging both physical activity and creativity.

Accessibility and Inclusion

A unique aspect of Shabyt is its commitment to inclusivity. Every room is designed with children of varying needs in mind. A sensory room is integrated into the facility to support developmental activities and ensure that all children have equal opportunities to thrive.

Almaz Sharman, chairperson of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation's board, stated, “Promoting education and establishing modern infrastructure for the development of children are among our foundation's top priorities. These projects represent long-term investments in communities and support the future of the country. I firmly believe that the new Shabyt Center will create leading opportunities for supplementary education and the creative and professional development of children in the region.”

Broader Impact and Future Endeavors

Dastan Ryspekov, Akim of the Uljtau region, who attended the opening ceremony, emphasized the broader implications of the project. “This new center is more than just a modern building. It is a place where children learn to develop their talents while engaging with technology, creativity, and sports. Such initiatives foster an environment in which younger generations can build confidence for their future.”

The Shabyt Center is the latest addition to a series of social infrastructure projects initiated by the foundation across Kazakhstan. Previous ventures include the construction of schools in Yesik and Kosshy, a new airport in Kyzylorda, and a community center also in Kosshy, showcasing the foundation's commitment to societal betterment.

As the Shabyt Creative Center opens its doors to the children of Zhezkazgan, it not only enriches the educational landscape but also ignites hope for a brighter future for the region’s youth, investing in their potential one creative endeavor at a time.