University Hosts Panel on ‘From Independence to the Future: Mehmet Akif and the Turkish National Anthem

On the occasion of the 104th anniversary of the adoption of the National Anthem, a panel discussion titled “From Independence to the Future: Mehmet Akif and Our National Anthem” was held at our University.

The panel held at the 8 September Martyrs Conference Hall of the Şehit Bülent Yurtseven Campus Medical and Social Facilities was attended by our Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hakkı Alma, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Selahattin Çelebi, Provincial Director of Youth and Sports Recai Şahin, academic and administrative staff, and students.

The panel, moderated by Prof. Dr. Murat Ali Karavelioğlu, featured speakers Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veysi Sevinçli, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdulhakim Tuğluk, and Dr. Yasin Ercilsin.

The program began with a moment of silence and the recitation of the Turkish National Anthem. In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Murat Ali Karavelioğlu emphasized the importance of approaching historical figures by taking into account the realities of the era in which they lived.

Speaking in this vein, Assistant Professor Yasin Ercilsin gave a presentation titled “Mehmet Akif in the Days of the National Struggle,” in which he provided a detailed assessment of the period in which Mehmet Akif Ersoy lived and the social and political atmosphere of that time.

Next, Associate Professor Abdulhakim Tuğluk gave a presentation titled “Akif's Poetry on the Road to the National Anthem” and discussed Akif's artistic life and the writing process of our National Anthem.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veysi Sevinçli shared some anecdotes about Mehmet Akif and the National Anthem, then read the poet's poems “Hakkın Sesleri” and “İstiklal Marşı.”

The closing speech of the panel, which attracted great interest from our students, was delivered by our Rector, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hakkı Alma.

In his speech, Rector Alma emphasized that Mehmet Akif Ersoy was one of the poets who most powerfully captured our nation's spirit of independence and love for the homeland, stating, "Mehmet Akif Ersoy was not only a poet but also a man of principle. The National Anthem he wrote is one of the most important works reflecting our national struggle, love for our homeland, and spirit of independence. On this occasion, I remember with mercy and gratitude all the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed their lives for this homeland, especially Mehmet Akif Ersoy."

The panel concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and a group photo session following the speeches.