Commemoration Ceremony for Atatürk Held at İstanbul Gelişim University

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic, was commemorated at İstanbul Gelisim University (IGU) on the 87th anniversary of his passing with ceremonies organized by the university. The commemoration program began with a ceremony held at the Rectorate building. At 09:05, university executives, academic and administrative staff, and students observed a moment of silence for Atatürk, followed by the national anthem. Following the ceremony, an event titled “Who Was Atatürk?” was held at the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Conference Hall. Aimed at helping students better understand Atatürk’s personality, thoughts, and accomplishments, the event highlighted various aspects of his leadership, foresight, patriotism, and modernization vision through different examples.

“The Republic Is Our Most Valuable Heritage”

The opening speeches of the event were delivered by Prof. Mustafa Nizamlıoğlu, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, and Asst. Prof. A. Yüksel Barut, Director of the Vocational School of Health Services.
Prof. Nizamlıoğlu emphasized that Atatürk was not just a soldier or a statesman but a great leader who ensured the rebirth of the nation, stating:
“The Republic, which he called my greatest work, is the most valuable legacy left to us. Today, our duty is to carry this legacy into the future guided by science and contemporary values. Inspired by his words ‘Science is the truest guide in life,’ we continue to raise individuals who embrace scientific thinking as their guide.”

“Understanding Atatürk Is More Important Than Just Explaining Him”

Asst. Prof. Yüksel Barut noted that it is impossible to explain Atatürk in a short time, saying:
“I would like to briefly recall him and introduce him to you through the statements of writers, researchers, and even those who were prisoners during the war.” He then shared anecdotes and historical information about Atatürk’s life.

Atatürk’s Life Story Presented

After the opening speeches, History Teacher Cem Ayas, the event’s speaker, recounted Atatürk’s life from his childhood and youth through his accomplishments over the years. Participants listened to a comprehensive presentation on Atatürk’s mindset and leadership approach.

Emotional Closing with Atatürk’s Favorite Songs

At the end of the program, the IGU Youth Choir, Bursa Gençleşen Türküler Project Group, and music and folklore expert Erdinç Ertüzün performed some of Atatürk’s favorite pieces. The program, which created emotional moments, received high praise from participants.
The commemoration program held at İstanbul Gelisim University once again emphasized the importance of keeping Atatürk’s ideas alive and protecting the values of the Republic.