Students of Sharmanov National Medical University, accompanied by group advisers fr om the Department of General and Biological Chemistry, visited a residential care facility. They helped plant trees, gave a short concert and spent time with older residents.

The visit brought together students from groups 115, 116, 151, 154 and 155 of the Medicine programme and group 108 of the Pharmacy programme.

The meeting began with a shared activity in the courtyard, wh ere students and lecturers planted young pine trees. This was followed by a performance of traditional Kazakh instrumental pieces, including kuis, on the dombra and kobyz. Music created opportunities to connect, listen and give residents personal attention.

For future doctors and pharmacists, such encounters hold particular value. Spending time with older people helps students understand how much compassionate care depends on patience, respect and the ability to listen. Beyond their knowledge of age-related changes and diseases, they begin to see people’s everyday needs, concerns and individual life stories.

The visit also encouraged students to reflect on the role of geriatric care and the support older people need. Learning to recognise when someone needs help, communicate sensitively and respect each person’s dignity is an essential part of their professional development.