#Kazakhstan #Bulat Utemuratov #Shabyt Center #Zhezkazgan

New Horizons for Children: Shabyt Center in Zhezkazgan

On June 3, 2026, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation marked International Children's Day with the grand opening of the Shabyt Children's and Youth Creativity Center in Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone for the city, being the most comprehensive children's center established in over seventy years. The Foundation's substantial investment of USD 7.7 million has not only constructed this essential educational resource but also donated it to the city, ensuring free services for local children.

A Modern Educational Hub

Located in the Western District of Zhezkazgan, the Shabyt Center spans 2,600 square meters and features 14 specialized classrooms, each designed to foster creativity and learning in various fields. The center includes:

• - STEM Classes: Dedicated rooms for robotics, mathematics, and natural sciences.
• - Creative Arts: An art studio, pottery workshop, digital design studio, and photography studio.
• - Performing Arts: Music rooms for instruments and voice, as well as dance studios and areas for martial arts.
• - Game and Leisure Areas: A chess room to support strategic thinking and friendly competition.

The center's assembly hall and early development spaces further enrich the offerings, accommodating up to 250 children at a time. Considering the robust demand, up to 600 children can benefit from its services daily, participating in various activities across multiple shifts.

Inclusive Facilities for All

The comprehensive facilities extend beyond classrooms. The grounds cover 1.6 hectares and include sports fields and playgrounds designed to encourage physical activity and social interactions. The architecture considers children of all abilities, featuring adaptive spaces and a specialized sensory room aimed at fostering inclusive education and overall child development.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Almaz Sharman, emphasized the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities through modern infrastructure. He stated, "Supporting education and creating modern facilities for children's growth are at the core of our mission. This project signifies a long-term investment in the community and the country’s future. I am confident that the Shabyt Center will forge significant avenues for enrichment and creativity among our youth."

Community Impact and Future Opportunities

Attendance at the opening was marked by local dignitaries, including Dastan Ryspekov, Akim of the Ulytau Region. Ryspekov remarked on the center’s role beyond being just a building. He stated, "This space is a gateway for children to explore their talents, engage with technology, and participate in sports—a nurturing environment where they will build confidence for their future."

The Shabyt Children's and Youth Creativity Center is part of a larger commitment by the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation to invest in social infrastructure throughout Kazakhstan. Their past projects include the establishment of schools in Yesik and Kosshy, and the construction of a new airport in Kyzylorda. As the Foundation continues its mission, the Shabyt Center stands out as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth of Zhezkazgan and beyond.

In conclusion, this newly opened center not only enhances educational facilities in Zhezkazgan but also serves as a testament to the progress being made towards a brighter future for Kazakhstan's younger generations.