Commemoration Programme for Atatürk on the 86th Anniversary of His Passing
Atatürk was commemorated on the 86th anniversary of his death with music and a history panel. Organised with Sarıyer’s education directorate, the programme explored the Republic’s founding and his legacy.
The “Commemoration Programme for Atatürk on the 86th Anniversary of His Passing” at İstanbul Nişantaşı University NeoTech Campus began with a moment of silence and the national anthem. Held as the second part of “Atatürk and Our Republic from 23 April to 10 November: Meeting with Students from Sarıyer,” jointly organised with the Sarıyer District Directorate of National Education, the programme featured Conservatory Music students performing Atatürk’s favourite songs. They then read his Address to the Youth, voicing Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s message to young people once again.
In her speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşegül Komsuoğlu Çıtıpıtıoğlu described Atatürk as a leader who shaped history and turned his dreams into reality, carrying a nation towards a brighter future. She explained that his determination extended beyond military victories to a pioneering role in building a modern nation-state. Referring to his statement that science is the truest guide in life, she emphasised scientific thought’s guiding role in national development. She noted that immediately after founding the Republic of Türkiye, Atatürk initiated comprehensive reforms in science, education and culture, considering progress in these fields essential. Addressing young people, she reminded them that advancing the Republic is everyone’s responsibility. She concluded by respectfully commemorating Atatürk on the 86th anniversary of his passing and pledging to fulfil our responsibilities. Following her speech, Sarıyer District Director of National Education Hüseyin Özcanlar and Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Yeşim Özer Yürür presented books sponsored by Penguen Kitabevi to attending students from Mehmet Rıfat Evyap Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School.
The event concluded with a panel on “Atatürk and the Republic,” featuring History Department Head Prof. Dr. Göknur Akçadağ and guest speakers Prof. Dr. Mustafa Budak and Prof. Dr. Ramazan Erhan Güllü. The panel emphasised the importance of the War of Independence under Atatürk’s leadership and the inspiration provided by his principles and reforms. Speakers shared important information about his life, the War of Independence and the founding of the Republic, presenting historical insights into his struggles for our country.
