The "19 Topics, 19 Talks on May 19" program organized by Istanbul Rumeli University RUPAM as part of the May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day was conducted online simultaneously via ZOOM and YouTube over five days.
On the first day, Assoc. Prof. Süleyman Özmen emphasized the importance of Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day in his opening speech and delivered a talk titled "Journey to Victory." He recounted Mustafa Kemal's arrival in Samsun and included quotes from Nutuk. Lecturer Murat Alper Güven, in his presentation "Justice is the Foundation of the State," discussed the origin of this phrase and the fundamentals of law. Emphasizing the significance of May 19, he highlighted that preserving a fully independent and impartial legal state is in the hands of the youth, as entrusted by Atatürk. Dr. Lecturer Aylin Türksever Tetiker, in her presentation "How Happy is the One Who Says I am a Turk," talked about the genetic history and roots of the Turks, giving examples of various research methods. She concluded her presentation by explaining the European countries with which Turks share genetic similarities.
On the second day, Dr. Lecturer Hüseyin Gündoğdu, in his presentation "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body," discussed the history of sports and the emergence of traditional Turkish sports like archery and wrestling, highlighting Atatürk's emphasis on sports. Lecturer Dr. Emrah Özdemir, in his presentation "Smart, Agile and Morally Upright," quoted Atatürk's words on sports and explained his importance on it. Lecturer Fahri Eryılmaz, in his presentation "Begin to Walk Without Getting Tired," provided information on how to maintain and develop independence. Lecturer Oğulcan Usuflu, in his presentation "Victory is Mine," emphasized the meaning and significance of the day with quotes from Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
On the third day, Lecturer Gamze Yetgin, in her presentation "From Now on, Your Name is Mustafa Kemal," discussed the story behind the naming of Mustafa. Emre Hasan Çepni, in his presentation "O Rising New Generation," talked about Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's educational journey and his emphasis on education. Furkan İlhan, in his presentation "All My Hope is in the Youth," discussed Atatürk's words about the youth and thanked today's national athletes. Kemal Karaçuka, in his presentation "Mustafa Kemal at the Age of 19," talked about Atatürk's family and educational life.
On the fourth day, Lecturer Zeki Anıt, in his presentation "The Culture of the Turkish Nation," explained the definition of Turkish culture and the importance of culture, religion, and language. Dr. Lecturer Kemal Hakan Tekin, in his talk "The Lifeblood of a Nation," discussed Atatürk's emphasis on art and his contributions to the current state of Turkish art. Lecturer Dila Evliyaoğlu Yiğit, in her presentation "Republic Architecture as a Symbol of Development," talked about Atatürk's importance on urbanization and Republic Period architecture. Lecturer Sevcan Battal, in her presentation "From Tent to Table: Turkish Cuisine," explained the history of Turkish cuisine and the culinary culture during various periods.
On the fifth day, Dr. Lecturer Sinem Yüksel Çendek, in her presentation "O Heroic Turkish Woman," gave examples of women's contributions during the national struggle period. Dr. Lecturer Ayşe Tanşu, in her presentation "Healthy Youth, Strong Future," talked about Atatürk's emphasis on health and his efforts in this field. Lecturer Şebnem Tamer, in her presentation "Wings of the Republic," provided information on the Battle of Sakarya and the first aircraft factory, Kayseri Aircraft Factory. Lecturer Serap Daş, in her presentation "The Future is in the Skies," discussed Atatürk's works in aviation and his emphasis on this field.
At the end of the talk program, national boxer Asad Aghayev, who came to our university for this special day, shared his achievements and passion for sports, giving an inspiring talk to the youth. Aghayev talked about the challenges he faced on his path to success and how he overcame them. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, discipline, and determination, giving advice to young athletes. In his closing speech, Aghayev motivated the youth to achieve their dreams and highlighted how sports can play a transformative role in their lives.
The "19 Topics, 19 Talks on May 19" program inspired our youth and once again emphasized the importance of following in Atatürk's footsteps. As Istanbul Rumeli University RUPAM, we are very pleased to have organized this meaningful event.
