Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Atatürk Research and Application Center (ATAUM) and Atatürk Ideology Club (ADK) co-organized an ‘Exhibition and Music Recital’ event within the scope of the May 19, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day. Taking place on Monday, 18 May 2026, at 10:45 a.m. at Rector’s Office building main entrance area, the event was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) Members Turan Büyükyılmaz and Özdinç Akdel, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, academic and administrative personnel, and students.
Commenced with observation of a minute of silence and National Anthem, the event continued with an opening speech on behalf of EMU ATAUM, by Dr. Devran Kaya. Highlighting the historical importance of the journey initiated by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun on 19 May 1919, Dr. Kaya noted that the day gained a broader social dimension in 1935 through a sports event held at Fenerbahçe Stadium, organized under the leadership of Beşiktaş and attended by hundreds of students representing Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, and Beşiktaş sports clubs. Dr. Devran Kaya further stated that the day was officially recognized as “Atatürk Day” on 24 May 1935 and later adopted the name “Youth and Sports Day” through the law enacted on 20 June 1938. Stating that the celebration has been commemorated as the “Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day” since 1981, Dr. Kaya emphasized that May 19 continues to be celebrated every year with great excitement in recognition of Atatürk’s strong emphasis on youth and sports.
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç emphasized that 19 May 1919 stands as one of the most critical milestones in the Turkish nation’s struggle for independence. Referring to Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun aboard the Bandırma Ferry, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that the National Struggle launched on that day symbolized not only a movement for liberation, but also the beginning of a vision built upon freedom, independence, and a modern future. Stressing that May 19 represents a historic turning point during which the Turkish nation declared to the world that it would never submit to captivity, Prof. Dr. Kılıç noted that Atatürk’s dedication of this meaningful day to the youth carries a profound responsibility. Addressing the younger generation, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that young people should become individuals who advance under the guidance of science, question and produce knowledge, embrace universal values, and maintain a strong sense of responsibility toward their country. He also underlined the importance of continuing to work with determination and without losing hope or faith despite all challenges encountered. Concluding his remarks, Prof. Dr. Kılıç conveyed his heartfelt wishes on the occasion of the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day and commemorated Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms, the esteemed martyrs, and heroic veterans with great longing and gratitude.
Following the opening remarks, Yiğit Çakır, a student from the Music Teaching Undergraduate Program of the Department of Fine Arts Education at the EMU Faculty of Education, presented a musical performance. The event concluded with the inauguration and tour of the Atatürk-themed exhibition.
