FOSTERING PATRIOTISM AMONG YOUTH THROUGH THE MEANS OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION REFLECTED IN THE EPIC «KOBYLANDY BATYR»

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to foster patriotism and heroism among the younger generation based on one of the oldest epic works of the Kazakh people – the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic. The main idea of the research is to cultivate such qualities as courage, humanity, diligence, and perseverance in young people through the image of the hero Kobylandy, nurturing them on the basis of national values. The primary focus of the study is the systematization of the means of physical education reflected in the text of the epic from a scientific and pedagogical perspective and the revelation of their educational significance. The scientific significance of the research lies in the fact that the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic is considered not only as a literary work but also as a source for shaping young people’s thinking through concepts related to physical education. The practical significance lies in the analysis of such concepts as accuracy, horsemanship, speed, endurance, strength, courage, and agility, as well as in the development of mechanisms for their implementation in the educational process. The research employed textual and comparative analysis methods, along with surveys. The content of the epic was examined in terms of structure and semantics, generalizing the concepts related to physical education and identifying their pedagogical importance in shaping the personality of young people. As a result, it was established that the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic plays a significant role in fostering national identity, heroism, and patriotism among the youth. Conducting educational work through the image of the great hero helps awaken the national spirit of defending the homeland and contributes to the formation of national character and a sense of honor among students. In conclusion, it is proposed to use the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic as an effective means of physical education in the educational process. The essence of the study lies in the deep analysis of the epic’s text, through which the educational value of physical education concepts in folk pedagogy was revealed. The results demonstrate that the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic is not only a rich cultural heritage of the people but also a powerful means of developing national spirit, heroic character, and martial preparedness among the younger generation. The practical relevance also lies in the fact that the proposed methodological and content-based approaches can be effectively applied in educational institutions, patriotic events, physical education classes, and sports clubs. Utilizing the means of physical education reflected in the «Kobylandy Batyr» epic contributes to nurturing individuals who sincerely love their homeland and respect the traditions and culture of their people.