The Presidential Center of the DPA RK hosted the First Forum of Capital's Guides and Tour Guides, dedicated to World Guide Day, which is celebrated on February 21.
The event was organized jointly with the Akimat of Astana, the “Astana Development Center” LLP, the Astana Guides Club, the Union of Guides and Tour Guides of Kazakhstan, and the “Kazakh Tourism” National Company JSC.
Approximately 100 capital and regional representatives from the excursion industry participated in the event.
In his address to the people of Kazakhstan on September 2, 2024, President K.K. Tokayev emphasized the importance of developing sustainable tourism and instructed to intensify efforts in its promotion.
During an expanded government meeting on January 28, 2025, it was tasked to make the tourism sector one of the key drivers of economic growth, enhance its investment attractiveness, develop infrastructure, and train highly qualified specialists providing quality tourism services.
"An important condition for creating a high-quality tourist service is the preparation of qualified personnel. Highly qualified guides play a special role, as they are the link between tourists and the rich heritage of the country. A guide is not only a representative of the nation but also a guide to the world of historical heritage, a cultural ambassador who creates an impression of Kazakhstan for the guests. The vibrancy and memorability of travellers' experiences depend on the guide's professionalism, knowledge, skills, and personal qualities.
A highly qualified guide must possess extensive knowledge in the fields of history, culture, ethnography, and geography of Kazakhstan. The Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan, one of the most significant tourist attractions in the capital, pays special attention to preserving historical memory and developing cultural tourism. Thanks to the professionalism of the guides, the Presidential Center has become a cultural and educational platform for youth, researchers, diplomatic delegations, and tourists interested in the political history of the country. Today's forum offers an opportunity to exchange experiences, discuss new methodologies and trends in the guiding industry, and define the future direction of our sector," emphasized Botagoz Kaipova, Deputy Director of the Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in her welcoming speech.
The Deputy Head of the Investment and Entrepreneurship Development Department of Astana, Maksat Zhanabaev, noted that the number of tourists visiting the capital in 2024 had increased by 14% compared to 2023, reaching approximately 1.5 million people who arrived in Astana from China, Turkey, Russia, India, South Korea, Germany, and the USA.
In his speech, Daniel Serzhanuly, the Deputy Chairman of NC "Kazakh Tourism" JSC, discussed the company's activities and the changes being introduced to the country's existing legislation regarding tourism development.
"Today's forum provides an opportunity to exchange experiences, discuss new methods and trends in the guiding industry, and determine the future direction of our sector. I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we can make the tourism industry even more high-quality, interesting, and accessible," shared Saltanat Abzhanova, President of the Union of Guides and Tour Guides of Kazakhstan.
During the Forum, speeches were also given by the Chair of the Tourism Industry Council of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan "Atameken" in Astana, Tatyana Vernitskaya; the academician of the International Academy of Tourism, Sapар Iskakov; the founder of the "Astana Guides Club," Aliya Akhmalisheva; the Deputy Chairman of the Board of "Qazaq Geography," Adilet Tkenov; the Director of "City Pass and Red Bus," Alexey Pogodaev; the expert in the field of guided tours, Anwar Akhmetzhanov; the Director of the Berik Alibay House Museum, Gulnar Ayatbek; the founder of the brand "Etno by RomaNova," Anastasia Romanova; the author of the project "Theatroguide," Amina Belgibayeva; the capital city guide, Gulzhan Yesenbaeva; and the expert in public catering, Veronika Daugalieva. The speakers addressed various issues, including the professional training of city guides and tour guides, cooperation, the benefits provided by public associations and organizations, as well as financial activities and taxation.
It is important to note that the Presidential Center of the DPA RK, which organized a Fishbowl discussion platform in 2024 to address the current challenges and prospects for sustainable tourism development in the country, has now brought together guides and tour guides who are at the forefront of the tourism industry and directly interact with tourists.
The second day of the Forum will take place at Maqsut Narikbayev University, where participants will have the opportunity to attend master classes and training sessions aimed at developing their professional competencies.
The Guide and Tour Guide Forum in Astana will be a key event for tourism professionals, opening new opportunities for professional development and cooperation.
