Celebrations marking April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day kicked off on Tuesday with a speech delivered by the Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu on Bayrak Radio and Television.

Ceremonies, parades and children’s performances were also held across the TRNC to mark the day.

Education Minister Çavuşoğlu began his address by pointing out that the opening of the Turkish Grand National Assembly and the gift of April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day to children by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk marked one of the most important turning points in history, stating that with the creation of the Turkish parliament, sovereignty was unconditionally given to the nation, and the will of the people was acknowledged as the highest authority.

Çavuşoğlu emphasized that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, while laying the foundations of the Republic of Türkiye with a contemporary understanding of democracy based on the sovereignty of the Turkish nation on April 23, 1920, did not limit his vision only to the participation of adults. He reminded that Atatürk attached great importance to children, who are the guarantee of the future, showing deep sensitivity to their education, health, and happiness.

He said, “For this reason, Atatürk declared April 23 not only as a national holiday but also as a special day dedicated to children. This decision by Atatürk not only emphasizes that children are the most precious assets of society but also reflects his value and confidence in their future.”

Minister Çavuşoğlu stated that this significant step became an assurance for children to look to the future with confidence, becoming the most meaningful expression of love and trust towards them.

He also addressed the children in his speech.

“Dear children; it is your greatest right to enjoy this important day dedicated to you. Remember that advancing under Atatürk’s guidance, acting in the light of his principles, embracing his ideals, and walking in his footsteps should be your only goal. As we celebrate today, our belief in you, our children, that by not forgetting the value of the past, by walking in Atatürk’s footsteps, by preserving the fundamental values of the republic, and by acting in line with the needs of the contemporary world, you will build a brighter future for your country and your nation.”

At the end of his speech, Minister Çavuşoğlu paid respect and homage to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all the heroes of the War of Independence, extending heartfelt wishes to the children and all the people, celebrating April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day with the sincerest feelings.

Meanwhile, ceremonies were held at all major cities across the TRNC with children performing dance shows and putting on parades.

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel who spoke at the main ceremony in Girne highlighted that April 23 was the date when the Turkish nation achieved national sovereignty.

Üstel emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot people and the younger generations, progressing in the light of the principles and reforms of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, will continue to advance on Atatürk’s path in the future as well.