In Search of Memory: Kazakh Journalism and Its Role in the Great Patriotic War

As part of the “Zheniske Zhol” – “Path to Victory” campaign, a lesson dedicated to the role of Kazakh journalism during the Great Patriotic War was held for the first-year students of the “Journalism” educational program at the Kazakh-American Free University. The lesson was held as part of the study of the discipline “History of Kazakh Journalism”.

During the lesson, students presented their research and personal conclusions about how Kazakh journalism contributed to the formation of public consciousness and morale during the war. Each of the speakers spoke about the influence of journalism on the patriotic feelings of the population, how print media and radio covered the exploits of Soviet soldiers, and how they maintained communication between the front and the rear.

Teacher Tatyana V. Levina emphasized the importance of propaganda at this critical time: “Kazakh journalism not only informed, but also actively participated in the information war. It was an instrument for shaping public opinion, creating images of heroism and unity, which significantly contributed to strengthening the morale of the people.” She also noted that frontline journalism is a golden page of Kazakhstani journalism, which left an indelible mark on the history of the country and in the hearts of people, showing how important the work of journalists was in the conditions of war and adversity. Military media were an operational conductor of the ideas of patriotism and selfless feat in the name of Victory, targeting people at military and labor feats. The experience of the frontline press is of enduring interest, both from the point of view of theory and practice for the present.

Students actively participated in the discussion, expressing opinions on the importance of journalism in the formation of identity and historical memory of the people. At the end of the lesson, a discussion was organized, where everyone could share their impressions and ask questions.

This lesson was not only an educational experience, but also an opportunity for students to more deeply understand the importance of their future professional path, as well as respect for history and the memory of those who fought for a peaceful sky above their heads.

Department of Pedagogy and Psychology