Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University celebrated Republic Day with great enthusiasm and pride. The Republic Day program held on October 28, 2025, at the KTMU Congress and Cultural Center, created an unforgettable atmosphere filled with emotion and unity.
This meaningful event was attended by the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Bishkek Latif Seyfeddin Oğlu Gandilov; the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Bishkek Saidikram Niyazhodcayev; the Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in Bishkek Tahir Osman Tahir; the Education Counsellor of the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Bishkek Kürşat Dulkadır; Vice-Rectors of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University Prof. Dr. İsmet Altıntaş and Prof. Dr. Kamalbek Karymshakov; as well as numerous academics, association leaders, media representatives, and students.
As part of the Republic Day celebrations, the Faculty of Fine Arts hosted an exhibition titled “Republic” at the Kurmanjan Datka Art Gallery.
Dedicated to the 102nd anniversary of the Republic, the exhibition showcased paintings and photographs centered on the theme of the Republic, symbolizing the timeless connection between past and future through the unifying power of art. This special mixed exhibition—where colors, lines, and expressions intertwined, glorified the ideals of freedom, independence, and hope through the universal language of art.
The works prepared by KTMU students and academics reflected the values of the Republic with artistic finesse and received great admiration from visitors.
The program continued in the Conference Hall of the Congress and Cultural Center and began with the national anthems of Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan.
In his opening speech, Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. İsmet Altıntaş delivered a moving address on the foundation of the Republic and the sacrifices made for its establishment. Prof. Dr. Altıntaş said, “The Republic is the epic of Nene Hatuns - those who, upon receiving news of their brother’s martyrdom, left their three-month-old babies in the cradle saying, ‘My child can live without a mother, but not without a homeland,’ and ran to the frontlines at the age of twenty.” He emphasized the immense price paid for the Republic, and continued: “The Republic is the sacred legacy of our heroic martyrs who built this strong nation in heaven. It is the heritage of the great figures who made the Turkish heart beat - Mete Han, Bilge Kağan, Manas Ata, and Korkut Ata. The Republic is the greatest legacy of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who launched the national struggle with the words, ‘Independence or Death!’ It represents the shared value of the Republic of Türkiye, the Turkish people, and friendly nations that walk steadfastly on the path of unity and solidarity. The Republic is a beacon of hope for nations living under oppression.”
Prof. Dr. Altıntaş concluded his speech with, “Happy Republic Day! Long live the Republic!” His heartfelt words deeply moved the audience, reminding everyone once again of the sacrifices behind the Republic’s establishment. The hall was filled with moments of emotion and pride, and the applause lasted for a long time.
Following the opening speeches, Prof. Dr. Enis Şahin, a faculty member of the Department of History at Sakarya University’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivered a conference titled “The Republic in Its 102nd Year.” In his address, Prof. Dr. Şahin emphasized that the Republic is not merely a system of government but a symbol of independence, modernity, and national will. He provided valuable insights into the founding process, core values, and Atatürk’s vision, highlighting that the achievements of the Republic over its 102-year history constitute a legacy that illuminates the path for future generations.
As part of the Republic Day celebrations, the Faculty of Fine Arts’ Turkic World Orchestra presented a memorable concert dedicated to the 102nd anniversary of the Republic. Through a repertoire of distinguished works, the orchestra conveyed the spirit of the Republic and the feelings of freedom and unity through music.
Following the Republic Day program, a Torchlight Parade was held in honor of the 102nd anniversary of the Republic. Organized under the leadership of the university, the march along Cumhuriyet Street featured participants carrying flags and lanterns, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with patriotic songs and chants.
At the conclusion of the program at Oba Garden, the national anthems of Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan were proudly performed. Alongside the Turkish flag, the flags of the Turkic World waved proudly in the night sky.
This special event, which vividly reflected the spirit of joy and patriotism, concluded with a group photo capturing the shared pride of the Republic’s 102nd anniversary.