Debate at SpeakUp!

On December 4, 2025, SpeakUp! hosted a debate in English on the topic: “Studying abroad: the path to becoming a perfect person (Tolyk Adam)?”
The teams considered the question of whether studying abroad contributes to the formation of a harmonious personality using Abai’s concept of the “perfect person” (Tolyk Adam).
Team A — “Ystyq kayrat” (Position FOR studying abroad: as a path to determination, independence, and expanding opportunities) consisted of students Aikyn Ainara, Dzantasova Medina, Tukhan Saken, Kokimov Arystan, and Islyamov Kaisar.
Team B — “Zhyly zhurek” (Position AGAINST: the development of a perfect person (Tolyk adam) is possible in the native environment, where spiritual values, cultural ties, and moral guidelines are preserved) consisted of Amangelduly Ali, Mukhtarova Inzhu, Abylai Dosymzhan, Nurkhan Adlet, and Dabyl Mouldir.
Both teams drew on the ideas of Abai, presenting arguments about the role of education, morality, and personal development. The discussion was dynamic, meaningful, and profound.
At the end of the debate, the Zhyly Zhurek team was declared the