As part of the "Year of Vocational Professions," D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University (EKTU) held a workshop event titled *"My Profession - My Pride" under the "Workshop Platform" initiative. The aim of the event was to enhance the status of vocational professions, attract youth to technical career paths, and raise awareness about labor market demands.
Participants included students from higher and specialized educational institutions, as well as graduates from general education schools. Major employers also took part, presenting their companies and career opportunities. Among them were prominent enterprises such as KazZinc LLP, UMZ JSC, TMK JSC, OESK JSC, Sogrinskaya CHP LLP, Ust-Kamenogorsk CHP LLP, and Shygys Zhylu JSC.
The event was organized by the East Kazakhstan Regional Employment Coordination and Social Programs Department and the Labor Mobility Center.
EKTU hosted an Open Day, offering students and graduates the chance to visit an exhibition of educational institutions and explore various professions. Guests also took part in tours of the university museum, laboratories, and library.
The official opening ceremony took place in the university's assembly hall. The Akim of East Kazakhstan Region, Nuryumbet Saktaganov, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of skilled professions and the government's focus on this area. EKTU's Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, Zhadira Tusipkhanqyzy, also addressed the audience, highlighting the event's relevance to career education.
The program included cultural performances that added a lively atmosphere and left a positive impression on the attendees.
The main segment of the event featured a series of master classes held at practical stations. EKTU organized sessions across six platforms, while city colleges showcased professions at four stations. Seven stations were dedicated to company presentations by major employers, and four additional platforms were allocated for grant recipients.
A challenge titled "Әке мен жасадым" (Father, I Made It) gave participants a chance to showcase their professional achievements. Additionally, a career session named "Mansap kompasy" provided a forum for young attendees to ask questions, share plans, and seek guidance from industry professionals.
The "My Profession - My Pride" workshop significantly increased youth awareness of vocational careers and encouraged interest in these critical professions. As part of the Year of Vocational Professions, this initiative marked an important step toward preparing a skilled workforce for the future.
