Monument Bust to U. Kulymbetov

Historical background: Uzakbai Zheldirbaiuly Kulymbetov was a prominent Kazakh statesman and public figure of the first half of the twentieth century. He was born in 1891 in the Irgiz district of the Aktobe region. Beginning his career as a rural teacher, he rose to become Chairman of the Central Executive Committee of the Kazakh ASSR and later the Kazakh SSR. His public service was closely connected with the formation of Kazakhstan’s system of governance, the development of education, the training of national professionals and the country’s social and economic modernization. In 1937 he became a victim of political repression and in 1938 was executed on false charges. He was later rehabilitated, and his name was restored to the historical memory of the nation.

Description of the monument: The monument is a bronze bust of Uzakbai Kulymbetov set on a granite pedestal. The bust is 80.7 cm high. The pedestal is made of Kurty granite; it is 1.8 m high and 60 cm wide. The composition presents Kulymbetov as a calm, thoughtful and dignified public figure. Its location within the school grounds is symbolic, reflecting his early work as a teacher and the educational purpose of preserving historical memory for younger generations.

Opening of the monument

The monument bust to Uzakbai Kulymbetov was ceremonially unveiled in December 2017 on the grounds of School No. 64 in Aktobe. The event was attended by regional and city officials, descendants of public figures, historians, representatives of the intelligentsia and local residents. The monument was installed with the support of Kulymbetov’s descendants and fellow countrymen. The ceremony became an important cultural event dedicated to honoring historical figures and preserving the memory of victims of political repression.

Why is this monument important? 

This monument restores the name of a statesman who served the country during one of the most difficult periods of Kazakhstan’s history. Uzakbai Kulymbetov’s life reflects the tragic fate of many Kazakh intellectuals of the twentieth century and reminds visitors of the importance of public service and historical justice. Its placement at a school gives the monument a strong educational meaning for future generations.

What to notice when viewing the monument

Pay attention to the restrained and thoughtful expression of the bust. The sculptor sought to convey not only the physical appearance of the figure, but also his inner strength, responsibility and dignity. The combination of bronze and granite emphasizes the historical weight of the personality, while the school setting highlights the link between education and remembrance.

Did you know? 

Secondary School No. 64 in Aktobe is named after Uzakbai Kulymbetov. A street in Aktobe also bears his name. The placement of the monument at a school is especially meaningful: Kulymbetov began his career as a teacher, so his image in an educational space carries a strong symbolic message.

Read more:

1. Adilet. State list of historical and cultural monuments of local significance in Aktobe Region
2. Kazinform. A monument to Uzakbai Kulymbetov was unveiled in Aktobe
3. Tengrinews. Monument bust to Uzakbai Kulymbetov unveiled in Aktobe
4. Ch. Valikhanov Institute of History and Ethnology. “Uzakbai Kulymbetov: Collection of Materials and Documents”
5. Official website of School No. 64 named after Uzakbai Kulymbetov