The 102nd anniversary of the Republic was celebrated at Çankırı Karatekin University with a conference titled “The Republic of Türkiye” and a procession featuring the carrying of a giant Turkish flag.
The ceremony, held in the Ahmet Yesevi Conference Hall, was attended by Çankırı Deputy Mayor Abdullah Aslan, Çankırı Karatekin University Rector Prof. Dr. Mevlüt Karataş, provincial directors, representatives of non-governmental organizations, as well as academic and administrative staff.
In his opening speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Mevlüt Karataş began by expressing his gratitude to Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms, and all the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the nation. Karataş emphasized that the Republic is the most precious symbol of the Turkish nation’s free will and determination for independence.
“As Çankırı Karatekin University, we carry the responsibility of preserving and advancing the values of our Republic under the guidance of science and in the light of academic freedom,” he said, adding that every academic, student, and staff member is a devoted contributor embodying the spirit of unity and solidarity in both science and service to society. Karataş concluded his speech by saying, “Together, we must build a Türkiye that rises through science, education, culture, and technology.”
Following the speech, the Music Choir of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture performed a musical program consisting of patriotic and heroic marches with an 18-member ensemble. Afterward, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Recep Büyüktolu, a faculty member from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivered a lecture titled “The Republic of Türkiye.” He outlined the historical development of the Republic, noting that while some nations experienced internal conflicts during their transition to republican systems, Türkiye declared its Republic after defeating multiple foreign enemies. He emphasized that the Republic was not proclaimed overnight, but that its footsteps had been heard since the Amasya Circular, marking each stage toward independence. He reminded attendees that everyone has a duty to ensure the survival of the Republic, which was won through the blood of hundreds of thousands of martyrs.
The program continued with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and the Republic Parade. In honor of the 102nd anniversary, a 102-meter-long Turkish flag was carried from the front of the Ahmet Yesevi Conference Hall to Milli Mefkure Square.
The celebration concluded with a performance by ÇAKÜ’s “A Sip of Anatolian Legend” Folk Dance Ensemble and a closing speech by Rector Karataş, followed by a dessert treat for all participants.