A 29 October – Republic Day event was organized in collaboration with Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Atatürk Research and Application Center (ATAUM) and EMU Atatürk Ideology Club. The said event took place on Wednesday, 30 October 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at EMU Rector’s Office building where “29 October – Republic Day through Images” exhibition was held.
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, EMU Vice Rector for Financial Affairs Prof. Dr. Salih Katırcıoğlu, EMU Vice Rector for Student Affairs Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, EMU Vice Rector for Promotion and Institutional Communication Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, academic and administrative personnel members and students attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition.
Commencing with the observation of A Minute of Silence and National Anthem, the event continued with the opening speeches. EMU Atatürk Ideology Club’s Chair Yağmur Gözder celebrated the 101st year of the Republic and stated that the Republic Day is a symbol of Republic of Turkey’s independence struggle. Underscoring that the Republic embodies a civilization rooted in freedom of thought, equality, and the prominence of science, Gözder reminded young people of their duty to uphold and advance this legacy, expressing deep respect for Atatürk and his fellow comrades.
Also delivering a speech, EMU-ATAUM academic staff member Dr. Devran Kaya emphasized that the Turkish nation’s journey to independence began with the War of Independence, describing the Republic’s proclamation as the pinnacle of their existential struggle. Citing Atatürk’s words, “Sovereignty unconditionally belongs to the nation,” Dr. Kaya highlighted the Republic’s significance as the bedrock of national sovereignty, democracy, and contemporary values. Dr. Kaya concluded by honouring Atatürk and his comrades with gratitude and respect, and celebrated the Republic Day.
“We Should Celebrate the Republic with the Reforms of Atatürk”
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç also made remarks on the occasion and said; “It was exactly 101 years ago today that our esteemed leader, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, established the Republic, honouring the independence flame ignited by him, his comrades, and the Turkish people. Undoubtedly, the founding of the Republic of Türkiye has had a profound influence not just within the Turkish community but worldwide. The ideas of our Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the revolutions of Atatürk have uplifted the Turkish people to the standards of modern civilizations. Now, our effort is to go beyond this level. On 29 October 1923, Atatürk declared the founding of the Republic of Türkiye with the principle that ‘Sovereignty unconditionally belongs to the nation’. Thanks to the solid foundations laid by Atatürk, the Republic continues its path with great strength. We should observe Republic Day by embracing Atatürk’s reforms. Every action Atatürk took to raise Türkiye to the level of advanced nations should be celebrated as part of Republic Day. Even 101 years later, this enduring flame reminds us of the lasting significance of Atatürk’s reforms. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, inspired by Türkiye’s struggle for independence, established its own republic in 1983. As Turkish Cypriots, we will always follow Mustafa Kemal’s legacy, moving forward guided by science”.
Following the opening speeches, the event continued with a musical performance by the EMU Faculty of Education, Fine Arts Education Department, Music Teaching Program students. The event ended with the opening of “29 October – Republic Day through Images” exhibition.
EMU United as One Heart on the 101st Anniversary of the Republic
As part of the celebrations organized on the 101st anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, “29 October Republic Day Youth March” was held in collaboration with EMU-ATAUM and EMU Atatürk Ideology Club, on Tuesday, 29 October 2024 at 19:23 p.m. The march commenced from the EMU Atatürk (CL) Square and ended in front of Famagusta Development Center (MAGEM).
Commenced with A Minute of Silence and National Anthem, the event was attended by EMU students, student clubs and EMU personnel. Holding flags and torches during the march, participants joyfully celebrated the 101st year of the Republic.