Abstract
In the context of globalization, the balanced preservation of national and universal human values within the education system has become particularly relevant. The purpose of this article is to reveal the pedagogical potential of Abai Kunanbayuly’s legacy in shaping universal human values among contemporary Kazakhstani youth. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the philosophical and pedagogical works of Kazakhstani and foreign scholars, Abai’s writings, as well as international legal documents. The study employed systemic, historical-cultural, and hermeneutic methods of analysis. The research findings demonstrate that Abai’s concept of the “Tolyq adam” (holistic person) interprets universal human values – such as morality, justice, honest labor, responsibility, spiritual purity, and respect for human dignity – in close unity with national identity, language, and spiritual heritage. It has been substantiated that the values articulated in Abai’s legacy are consonant with contemporary humanistic and educational paradigms, as well as with the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The article substantiates that integrating Abai’s ethical ideas into the educational process contributes to the formation of spiritually enriched, competitive, and socially responsible young individuals. The significance of the study lies in its theoretical justification of the role of national spiritual heritage in strengthening universal human values and in educating youth in the spirit of patriotism, tolerance, and humanism.