From struggling to speak a new language to becoming a celebrated teacher, one woman's journey is nothing short of inspiring! Discover how she conquered her fears, embraced her roots, and ...
Marina Bessudnova teaches computer science at a school in the village of Ozerki, located near Semey. Her childhood was spent in the village of Karakol in the Urjar district. From a young age, Marina was exposed to the Kazakh language, understanding some parts while not comprehending others, as her family spoke Russian at home. Everything changed when it was time for her to enter the first grade. The village had a single school that taught in Kazakh. In the initial months of her school life, the girl faced significant challenges. She could only grasp the educational material through pictures shown by the teacher during lessons. With no one at home to assist her with homework, Marina decided to take matters into her own hands—she resolved to learn the Kazakh language well enough not just to understand but also to speak it. Gradually, the first grader began to listen closely to her classmates, learning letters and sounds. Unbeknownst to herself, she started to comprehend what those around her were saying. Lessons became less difficult, and she gradually learned to form sentences. Then, unexpectedly... she began to sing. As Marina admits, it was the songs in Kazakh that helped her overcome the language barrier. Her shyness in communicating with peers disappeared, and she started constructing sentences easily and fluently. Immersed in language learning, discovering new expressions, the girl began to think in Kazakh. One day, her parents noticed that their daughter was automatically responding to their questions in Kazakh.
The results of her hard work speak for themselves—she received straight A's in her first-grade report card, not only catching up to her peers but surpassing them academically. Throughout her school years, she maintained high standards, excelling in all subjects. Upon graduating, she decided to pursue the noble profession of a teacher of the Russian language and literature.
However, considering her strong inclination towards the exact sciences, she had to adjust her plans. While she remained committed to her dream of becoming a teacher, Marina opted for computer science. She submitted her documents to the Semipalatinsk Pedagogical Institute, specifically for the department that taught in Kazakh, but during the assignment process, she was placed in a Russian group. At that point, Marina explained to the faculty in her impeccably fluent Kazakh that there was no mistake and that she would study in the state language.
During her student years, she participated in language competitions, took part in student conferences in the state language, and was active in community work while excelling in her studies.
In 2009, after successfully passing her state exams, Marina graduated. The institute offered her the opportunity to participate in the government program "With a diploma—to the village!" She agreed and moved to Ozerki.
– This is a fantastic program for a young specialist. I was given a relocation allowance and a preferential loan, which I immediately used to buy a house in the village. I've already managed to pay it off. I love my village, my school, and we have a very friendly, close-knit team. The air is clean, the nature is extraordinary, and the people are warm-hearted, – says Marina Bessudnova.
During our conversation, Marina recalled the moment she applied for a job. When the young specialist went for an interview with the school principal, he informed her that their school was bilingual and that she would have to teach in Kazakh classes, which might be quite challenging for a Russian girl. In response, Marina just laughed and said that she had been learning in the state language her entire life and that it would be harder for her to communicate with Russian-speaking students than with those who were studying in the state language.
– We made a playful bet with the school principal: I would teach him Kazakh, and he would teach me Russian. He succeeded in his endeavor, but I couldn't help him overcome the language barrier. However, this does not prevent us from respecting each other. Yes, now, after 14 years of working in both Russian and Kazakh classes, I speak both languages equally well, – says the teacher.
Computer science is a complex but essential subject. To engage the children and involve them in creative activities, she utilizes robotics lessons, and her knowledge of languages allows her to convey the subject matter to each of her students.
Back in 2018, when the Semey region was part of the East Kazakhstan region, all schools were equipped with robotics classrooms, and interest in computer science immediately surged. The kids enjoy working with the constructor, programming the robots they build, and then showcasing their skills at annual championships, often winning prizes. As Marina Bessudnova admits, she personally enjoys working with robotics. It is here that she can realize numerous ideas and projects, immersing herself in technical creativity and awakening engineering thought in children and teenagers.
Marina Davydovna teaches her subject in both Russian and Kazakh. However, she freely speaks the state language everywhere.
She is a multiple participant in regional competitions. Recently, the teacher implemented her own unique teaching methodology using national games in her discipline.
– Computer science lessons using computers, interactive boards, and panels are not interesting to students, as these devices are used in all classes. To motivate the kids, I decided to talk about national values during lessons. The methodology "Asyk," "Zhetygen," and "Dombra" is used in class. Students eagerly participate in group activities like "Zheti Takiya," "Tenge Alu," and "Tug of War," – shares the teacher.
In her free time, Marina Davydovna reads books in Kazakh. She has not abandoned her passion for singing, which once helped her master the Kazakh language. Her repertoire mainly consists of songs by Abay Kunanbayuly.
By her example, she motivates others to strive for mastering and deepening their knowledge of the Kazakh language. In February of this year, Marina took first place in the regional competition "Best Rural Teacher-2024."