The region’s Turkish ethno-cultural centre opened in December 2004. According to the centre’s head, ethno-cultural centres are created as part of the model to strengthen interethnic harmony in the country, to preserve and develop the traditions and customs of ethnicities living in Kazakhstan and to educate young people about them.

The centre promotes the development of multilateral cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Turkey, including participation in cultural and educational activities, the study of the Turkish history, language, , culture, traditions and customs as well as the study of the state language.

The centre’s members take part in regional and city events. The centre also includes the Bahar dance group whose members contribute to social and economic development of the region in science, education, healthcare and agriculture, said Geidarova.

Approximately 1,500 people of Turkish descent live in the region, all of which are the centre’s members. The majority live in the Karmakshi district, Baikonur and Kyzylorda.

“Young people are studying the Kazakh language. Representatives of the Turkish ethnicity are studying in the Kazakh language in higher education institutions. (They) have won the state language competitions at the national, regional and city levels,” said Geidarova.