Since September 2025, the “Young Archaeologist” club has been operating under the guidance of history teacher and master educator E. Zh. Bukenov at Saumalkol Secondary School No. 1. The club leader developed an original 34-hour course program.

“Botai – Cradle of Nomadic Civilization,” designed for school students and implemented as part of the subject “History of Kazakhstan.” The program aims to develop students’ foundational historical thinking, research skills, and interdisciplinary competencies through practice-oriented activities within the archaeological club

The program integrates core historical and archaeological knowledge, focusing on the Eneolithic era through the example of the Botai culture in Northern Kazakhstan. Through project-based and research activities, students become familiar with archaeological methods as an auxiliary historical science, develop skills in artifact analysis, reconstructing the past, and creating and presenting their own mini-research projects.

The novelty of the program lies in its combination of Kazakhstan’s history with archaeological research methods. Special attention is given to the study of the Botai culture, one of the most significant chapters in our national history. This approach helps students better understand their past, enhance their knowledge, and reflect on their future career choices. In addition to learning about archaeology, students cultivate an interest in other humanities disciplines.

A distinctive feature of the program is its creation through close collaboration between history teacher E. Zh. Bukenov and researchers from the State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve “Botai.”

Program Goals: Introduce students to the basics of archaeology and the culture of the Eneolithic era using the Botai culture as an example. Foster interest in the historical and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan. Develop research and project-based skills.

The implementation of the “School of Young Archaeologists” program organically complements the educational process, giving students the opportunity to:

• Deepen knowledge in the History curriculum through integration with archaeology as an applied humanities discipline.
• Develop a sustained interest in studying the past and the cultural heritage of their country.
• Acquire essential skills and competencies required in modern society.

The program promotes an educational environment where theory is combined with practice, making learning personally meaningful and oriented toward the development of functional literacy. This approach makes the course relevant, in-demand, and valuable for preparing students for life in the information society.