Abstract
The article examines the role of literature in shaping students’ spiritual and moral development within the modern education system. As educational priorities shift toward personal values, worldview formation, and spiritual growth, Kazakh language and literature play an important role in introducing students to national culture, strengthening language competence, and developing aesthetic appreciation. Literature is presented as a means of fostering artistic thinking, creativity, and personal development. The article also emphasizes the teacher’s role in shaping students’ worldview through effective literary education. Particular attention is given to the pedagogical legacy of the distinguished Kazakh educator and methodologist Kanipa Bitibayeva. Her contribution to improving the methodology of teaching Kazakh literature and her influence on the development of the national education system are analyzed. The study highlights the originality of her innovative teaching approach based on the philosophy of “Stimulating Thought, Reflection, and Thinking” («Oй тастау, ойланту, ойлау»). These methods encourage active learning, independent thinking, and meaningful engagement with literary texts. The study concludes that Bitibayeva’s methodological innovations enhance students’ cognitive activity, support the assimilation of national spiritual values, and promote the development of creative thinking.