Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS) have responded to criticism from former deputy Murat Abenov, who accused the schools of elitism and ignoring national values. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The NIS leadership stated that Abenov's words are subjective and groundless. According to NIS, national values, the state language, history, and culture of Kazakhstan are an important part of the educational process.
"The compulsory program includes the Kazakh language and literature, history of Kazakhstan, geography, and fundamentals of law. The subjects 'History of Kazakhstan' and 'Geography' are taught in Kazakh in all grades," the leadership responded.
Key orientations include patriotism, responsibility, family values and traditions, respect, honesty, diligence, and creativity.
The organization also emphasized that calling NIS "elite schools" does not correspond to reality: student selection is based solely on their knowledge, not on social or financial status.
Furthermore, the administration noted that before publishing his statements, Murat Abenov did not contact NIS for information about the content of the educational program.
"In this regard, his statements are subjective and not supported by specific facts, research results, or official conclusions," NIS summarized.
The former Majilisman claimed he studied the NIS program and found virtually no topics related to Kazakhstan. According to him, the schools focus mainly on globalization and foreign policy, while students show a low level of upbringing.
Abenov called for eliminating the privileged status of NIS, transferring them to unified state standards, and ensuring equal conditions for all students.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Abenov called for stripping NIS of its privileges.