Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Türkiye, was commemorated on the 88th anniversary of his passing with a ceremony held at the Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Kurupelit Campus.

The ceremony, held in front of the OMU Atatürk Monument, began with Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz laying a wreath at the monument.

At 09:05, participants observed a moment of silence in memory of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, followed by the Turkish National Anthem.

“We continue to work, produce, and contribute to society in the light of science”

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz described November 10 as a meaningful day on which the nation shares its sense of loss while reflecting once again on Atatürk’s ideas, principles, and goals.

Kurnaz emphasized that Atatürk was not only a military leader of remarkable ability, but also a statesman capable of thinking beyond his time and a leader who placed great importance on science.

Referring to Atatürk’s words, “The truest guide in life is science,” Kurnaz said Atatürk had consistently pointed to reason and scientific thought as the path forward.

Emphasizing that OMU continues its work in accordance with this understanding, Kurnaz said:

“Guided by this principle, we continue to work, produce, and contribute to society in the light of science across our campuses, classrooms, and laboratories. With every student we educate and every project we carry out, we aim to move one step closer to Atatürk’s ideal of advancing beyond the level of contemporary civilization.”

Kurnaz also referred to Atatürk’s statement, “My spiritual legacy is science and reason,” noting that it continues to serve as a guiding principle.

He emphasized the importance of working toward the goal of advancing the country beyond the level of contemporary civilization while educating younger generations who think freely, produce, question, and contribute.

Referring to the moment of silence observed at 09:05, Kurnaz said the moment also carries significance as a reminder of the nation’s determination for independence and Atatürk’s commitment to human dignity.

Kurnaz concluded his remarks by saying:

“On this occasion, I commemorate Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms, and our cherished martyrs who sacrificed their lives for our homeland with mercy and gratitude. I extend my gratitude to our heroic veterans and bow with respect before Atatürk’s cherished memory. May he rest in peace.”

The ceremony was attended by Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer, Secretary General Prof. Dr. Erhan Burak Pancar, advisors to the Rector, members of the University Senate, academic and administrative staff, and students.

OMU represented at Samsun Governor’s Office commemoration program

Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten, representing OMU on behalf of Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın, also attended the November 10 Atatürk Remembrance Day program organized by the Samsun Governor’s Office.

The program began at 08:55 with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Onur Anıtı (Monument of Honor).

Following a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, the Turkish flag was raised and then lowered to half-mast.