On August 15, 2024, in celebration of Archaeologist’s Day (an informal professional holiday observed in several post-Soviet countries, including Kazakhstan), the Republican State Enterprise “State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve ‘Botai’” of the Committee of Culture of the Republic of Kazakhstan organized an educational field trip for children from the “Center for Support of Children in Difficult Life Situations” of Aiyrtau District. The excursion took place in a protected natural area where ancient archaeological settlements, historical monuments, and the picturesque nature of Aiyrtau District in the North Kazakhstan Region are organically located.

The staff of the “Botai” museum-reserve conducted a field seminar in an interactive and game-based format for the children’s recreation.

During the seminar, museum researcher M. S. Makeev delivered an opening speech emphasizing the importance of archaeology for the younger generation. He noted that significant attention is currently being given to archaeology and that the field, like science in general, is developing dynamically.

Participants were also introduced to the process of archaeological excavations and the tools used by archaeologists. The young participants learned how to recognize excavation methods and how to describe discovered finds and artifacts.

During the field seminar, the children were shown master classes on ceramic pottery making, the production of stone discs, leather processing for everyday use by the Botai people, and grinding herbs and plant roots.

Additionally, master classes were demonstrated on UAV (drone) operation and aerial photography, skills that will be useful for future archaeological expeditions and practical outdoor activities. Museum staff also conducted a workshop on assembling, disassembling, and setting up a tourist tent and sleeping bag.

The field seminar concluded with competitive sports activities such as javelin throwing and archery in a game format, followed by the awarding of winners, which, of course, brought a great deal of excitement and positive emotions to the children of the Center.