The Paleolithic of Kazakhstan: Academician Zhaken Taimagambetov Shares New Discoveries with Students in North Kazakhstan

Learning about Kazakhstan’s history firsthand. Kozybayev University hosted an informative lecture by renowned archaeologist, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, and Academician of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Zhaken Taimagambetov.

Zhaken Kozhakhmetovich is credited with discovering more than 300 Paleolithic sites in Kazakhstan. He is the author of over 550 scientific publications published in 12 languages, including 53 monographs, and holds two authors’ certificates. He has established absolute dates for stratified Paleolithic sites, including the Koshkurgan–Shoktas complex, the Ch. Valikhanov site, Shulbinka, and others. He also leads international archaeological expeditions involving researchers from Germany, Belgium, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Russia.

It was Zhaken Taimagambetov who provided a scientific basis for the claim that the first humans settled in what is now Kazakhstan approximately one million years ago, making a significant contribution to world archaeology.

The distinguished scholar shared his extensive experience with students. During his lecture, “The Paleolithic of Kazakhstan in Light of the Latest Paleoanthropological Discoveries,” the academic presented the results of fundamental research conducted over the past decade, paying particular attention to discoveries made this year. Findings from the Bozzhyra area in Mangystau and the Ushbulak-1 sites in Shilikty make it possible to connect Kazakhstan’s ancient cultures with global processes in human development during the Upper Paleolithic.

“Science is advancing rapidly today. This year alone, six international expeditions were conducted during a single field season. We have obtained so much new information! Students from Japan, China, Greece, and the United States come to work with me. They participate in expeditions, defend their dissertations, and then leave. I would like to see more local specialists interested in studying the Paleolithic who would stay here and continue their research,” Zhaken Taimagambetov shared.

Through his enthusiasm, dedication to his chosen field, and love of science, Zhaken Kozhakhmetovich inspired the students in the audience. They actively engaged in the discussion, asking questions about modern archaeological methods, research conducted in North Kazakhstan Region, and prospects for international scientific cooperation.

Notably, Zhaken Taimagambetov was a student of Academician Manash Kozybayev. During the event, he shared his memories of his distinguished mentor. Ilyas Manashevich Kozybayev, Doctor of Historical Sciences and son of Manash Kozybayev, also attended the lecture.

“Manash Kabashevich was a historian and scholar whose views were respected by both senior officials and government representatives. He raised pressing issues and mentored many students who now work both in Kazakhstan and abroad. Your university carries his name with distinction. Today, I visited your excellent classrooms and laboratories and saw that the students are disciplined. I would like to encourage young people to honor the legacy of Manash Kozybayev, continue his work, and constantly seek new knowledge,” Zhaken Taimagambetov told the students.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Zhaken Kozhakhmetovich was awarded the “Academician Manash Kozybayev” medal and granted the title of Honorary Professor of Kozybayev University.