Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University participated in the wreath-laying ceremony held at Atatürk Park by the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Bishkek on the occasion of the 23 April National Sovereignty and Children’s Day and the 106th anniversary of the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye.
This Holiday is Entrusted to the Children of the Republic!
Dr. Mekin Mustafa Kemal Ökem, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Bishkek, stated that they were celebrating the 106th anniversary of the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. Ambassador Ökem emphasized that 23 April is not only a symbol of national sovereignty but also a special holiday dedicated to children, noting that this meaningful day represents the beginning of the rebirth of the Republic of Türkiye.
23 April Spirit at KTMU: Children Experienced the Joy of the Holiday
The celebrations of the 23 April National Sovereignty and Children’s Day continued with events organized at Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University. The program, arranged by the university administration for the children of staff members, featured colorful and joyful moments. As part of the program, Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan hosted children, seen as the guarantee of the future, in his office and shared in their holiday excitement. Closely engaging with his young guests, Rector Ceylan wished them success in their educational journeys.
In line with the significance of the day, a symbolic handover ceremony was also held, during which Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan symbolically transferred his seat to Teoman Erdoğan and Aitunuk Tynçtykbek Kyzy.
Throughout the program, children celebrated the joy of the 23 April National Sovereignty and Children’s Day together in an atmosphere of happiness and excitement.
Rector Ceylan: “National Sovereignty is the Guarantee of a Nation’s Existence and Future”
Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan emphasized that national sovereignty represents a nation’s existence, resilience, and vision for the future. He underlined that children and youth are the strongest guarantee of the nation and referred to the views of Turkish historian Osman Turan. Drawing attention to the endurance of the Turkish nation despite historical challenges, Ceylan stated: “As long as a nation’s family structure, homeland, traditions, and cultural values remain intact, even if states collapse, that nation will rise again and continue its path.” He added that the existence of six independent Turkic states today is a significant indicator of this historical continuity. Sharing his perspectives on the future of the Turkic world, Prof. Dr. Ceylan stressed the importance of strengthening unity and solidarity, stating: “Our greatest wish is to see more Turkic flags waving in the skies in the future.”
He also noted that a nation is strengthened not only by its victories but also by the lessons learned from hardships. Emphasizing the importance of preserving traditions, customs, religion, and cultural values, Ceylan concluded: “As long as we protect these values, the future belongs to the Turkish nation. The younger generations will be the strongest representatives of unity and solidarity in the Turkic world.”
During the program, students from the Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Music performed pieces prepared specifically for 23 April, accompanied by the Turkic World Orchestra and choir. Additionally, third-grade students from Bishkek Turkish Primary School, Hayat Baş and Aysu Satıcıoğlu, recited poems titled “Our Holiday” and “The Holiday of My Homeland,” adding meaning and enthusiasm to the event.
In the continuation of the program, students from the Child Care Program of the Vocational College staged a fairy tale performance accompanied by an interactive presentation for children. With its colorful and entertaining content, the show attracted great interest from the young participants, creating joyful and lively moments throughout the event.