The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is celebrating the 19th of May Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day alongside Türkiye.
The day commemorates the 105th anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk landing in Samsun on May 19, 1919, which is regarded as the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence.
The founder of modern-day Turkiye, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk then dedicated the day to the country’s youth to whom he entrusted the future of the Turkish nation.
The Ministry of National Education is organising weeklong events to celebrate the day.
The 19th of May Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day will kick-started today until the 19th of May.
This morning students, teachers and athletes from Lefkoşa Central schools lit the “Youth Torch” together with the Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu marking the beginning of the 19th of May Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day week.
The Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu addressed the youth at the event.
He said “Dear youth do not forget that the future will be shaped in your hands. With this awareness, you will work relentlessly to grow up as individuals who are beneficial to your country and humanity and will guide the future. At this point, we firmly believe that you will follow the course drawn by Atatürk, protect the Republic and build a future based on more solid foundations by improving yourselves in every field.”
Within the framework of weeklong events, ceremonies and activities, dance performances, sports, cultural, social and environmental activities will take place and visits will be carried out to state and government officials.
On Sunday the 19th of May Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day ceremonies, Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu will deliver a speech on the meaning and importance of the day at 08:00 am on Bayrak Radio Television.
Wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at Atatürk’s monuments in all districts.
At 6pm the “105th Anniversary Cortege” will be held with the participation of students and teachers from Lefkoşa central schools, universities, federations, clubs and associations affiliated to the Sports Department, non-governmental organizations and the public.
At 19:19, after the cortege reaches Dereboyu, the Security Forces Marching Band and the Lefkoşa Anatolian Fine Arts High School will give a concert.