The Altay Fest 2026 – "Altai, the Golden Cradle of the Turkic World" was held in the Katon-Karagay District of East Kazakhstan Region. The festival brought together culture, history, modern technologies, and the traditions of Turkic peoples. Its program featured an international aitys competition, the traditional alaman baiga horse race, national sports competitions, ethnocultural events, craft exhibitions, and a grand gala concert headlined by Kazakhstan's People's Artist Dimash Qudaibergen.
Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University (EKTU) took part in the festival by presenting innovative projects developed by its students.
The university's exhibition featured:
- an educational computer game on the history of Kazakhstan, created by EKTU students;
- the Ai Sana guide robot, designed to introduce visitors to the university campus;
- a VR tour of the Akbaur archaeological complex, allowing visitors to take a virtual journey through one of East Kazakhstan's most significant historical and cultural landmarks.
The showcased projects attracted considerable interest from festival visitors, demonstrating how students' ideas are transformed into innovative digital solutions that combine education, science, culture, and modern technology.
Participation in Altay Fest 2026 provided EKTU with another opportunity to highlight the scientific and creative potential of its students while contributing to the promotion of Kazakhstan's cultural heritage through innovative technologies.
Every year, Altay Fest – "Altai, the Golden Cradle of the Turkic World" brings together thousands of visitors and serves as one of the largest international cultural events in East Kazakhstan, promoting tourism, strengthening cultural ties, and preserving the region's rich historical heritage.