Monument-Bust Dedicated to Shyganak Bersiyev

Historical Background

Shyganak Bersiyev was an outstanding farmer who made a significant contribution to the development of agricultural culture in the Kazakh steppe. He was born in 1881 in the area of present-day Uil District, Aktobe Region, near Ashchioiyl.

In popular memory, Shyganak Bersiyev is known as the “father of white millet.” In the dry steppe environment, he achieved remarkable results in millet cultivation and became a symbol of hard work, practical knowledge and a deep connection between people and the land.

During the Great Patriotic War, Bersiyev’s work became one of the vivid examples of labour heroism on the home front. He not only produced high yields, but also contributed to supporting the front. For this reason, his name became associated with labour devotion, responsibility and service to the homeland.

Description of the Monument

The monument-bust dedicated to Shyganak Bersiyev was installed in 2006 in Aktobe, at the intersection of Sh. Bersiyev and N. Nekrasov Streets. It was erected to mark the 125th anniversary of the birth of the renowned farmer.

The bronze sculpture is 1.0 metre high. It is placed on a pedestal faced with red granite. The pedestal is 2.2 metres high, 60 cm long and 64 cm wide.

The artistic design presents Shyganak Bersiyev as a man of labour, a steppe farmer and a master of millet cultivation. The red granite pedestal gives the composition a solemn character and highlights his importance in the agricultural history of Kazakhstan.

Opening of the Monument

The monument was installed in 2006 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Shyganak Bersiyev’s birth. Its appearance in the urban space of Aktobe became a sign of respect for a man of labour and an effort to preserve the memory of a prominent figure in the agrarian history of the region.

The location of the monument on a street named after Shyganak Bersiyev also has symbolic meaning. It reminds residents and visitors of a person whose name is closely connected with the labour glory of the Aktobe Region.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The monument-bust dedicated to Shyganak Bersiyev is an important work of monumental art in Aktobe’s cultural landscape. It reflects respect for labour, the bond between people and the land, and the historical role of agriculture in the life of the region.

This monument is important not only as a memorial to one individual. It also reminds us of the labour heroism of the home front, the value of honest work and devotion to one’s native land. The image of Shyganak Bersiyev helps younger generations understand the importance of perseverance, responsibility and dedication.

What to Notice When Viewing the Monument

When looking at the monument, pay attention to its compact yet expressive composition. Although the bust itself is not large, the elevated pedestal and red granite facing give the figure dignity and significance.

The bronze bust does not convey military heroism, but rather the quiet dignity of a person of labour. It reflects the calm strength of a steppe farmer, his closeness to the land and the noble value of creative work.

Did You Know?

Shyganak Bersiyev’s achievements are known far beyond the Aktobe Region. His experience in millet cultivation became part of the agricultural history of Kazakhstan as an example of outstanding skill and determination.

In 2026, the 145th anniversary of Shyganak Bersiyev’s birth renewed public interest in his legacy. National media materials based on archival documents highlighted how Bersiyev supported the front during the Great Patriotic War, including references to his diaries and letters. These materials show that he was not only a record-setting farmer, but also a person who contributed to Victory through his labour on the home front.

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Location on the map

Coordinates: 50.283549, 57.239198