29 October Republic Day was celebrated during a ceremony and an exhibition titled “29 October Republic Day through Photos” organized by Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Atatürk Research and Application Center (ATAUM) in collaboration with Atatürk Ideology Club (ADK) and the support of Faculty of Education, Department of Fine Arts Education, Music Teaching Program.
The event, held on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in front of the Rector’s Office building, commenced with a moment of silence and national anthem. EMU Board of Trustees Acting President Özdinç Akdel, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, academic and administrative personnel, and students were present during the event.
Following a musical performance by Yiğit Çakır, a student of the Department of Fine Arts Education at EMU Faculty of Education, EMU ADK President Görkem Topçu delivered a speech. In his address, Topçu expressed the pride and joy of celebrating the 103rd anniversary of the Republic, emphasizing that 29 October 1923 marked the historic moment when the Turkish nation asserted its independence and its determination to shape its own future, proclaiming this resolve to the entire world. Describing the Republic as an invaluable legacy that carries the principles of freedom of thought, equality, science, and modernity forward to future generations, Topçu underscored the responsibility of young people to safeguard this heritage and contribute to the nation’s continued advancement under the guidance of reason and science.
In her address, Dr. Devran Kaya from EMU-ATAUM stated that they had gathered to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic, highlighting the arduous struggles and challenges that paved the way for its establishment. Providing an overview of the historical developments leading to the proclamation of the Republic, Dr. Kaya emphasized that the Republic serves as a safeguard of national sovereignty, democracy, national consciousness, reason, individual identity, equal opportunities, women’s rights, modern legal principles, education, economic development, civilized life, and peace.
Speaking next, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç expressed the pride and enthusiasm of celebrating the 103rd anniversary of the Republic, emphasizing that the Republic represents far more than a form of government, serving as one of the fundamental pillars of reason, science, education, equality, and modernization. Highlighting the vital role of universities in advancing scientific thought, fostering the free exchange of ideas, and nurturing young individuals with a strong sense of social responsibility, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that EMU regards upholding Atatürk’s principles and reforms, preserving the nation’s historical heritage, and passing these values on to future generations as among its fundamental responsibilities. Underscoring the importance of strengthening the future of the Republic through science, education, and freedom of thought, Prof. Dr. Kılıç extended his appreciation to everyone who contributed to the organization of the event.
Following the opening speeches, the event commemorating the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic featured a photographic exhibition highlighting the historical significance of the Republic and the enduring legacy of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
