The 106th anniversary of May 19—the day when founding leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk landed in Samsun to begin Türkiye’s national struggle—will be celebrated across all districts starting today with a series of commemorative events and ceremonies.
The weeklong festivities, organised by the Ministry of National Education, will begin with the lighting of the “Youth Torch,” symbolising the enduring spirit of youth and independence.
The celebration week will feature a wide range of student-led activities including parades, dance performances, sports tournaments, cultural showcases, and environmental initiatives.
In addition, students will visit high-ranking state and government officials as part of the program.
Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu will deliver a televised address on Monday, May 19, via Bayrak Radio and Television, reflecting on the significance of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day.
All districts will hold wreath-laying ceremonies at Atatürk monuments, with the opening ceremony scheduled for tomorrow at 9:19am.
Among the notable events will be the “Pedalling Toward the Future” cycling tour and a beach volleyball tournament held on May 14 in memory of the “Champion Angels.”
On May 15, students will participate in a two-day 3×3 basketball tournament, while the Tolga Kınacı Memorial Handball Tournament will kick off on Friday, May 16.
The official state ceremony on May 19 will take place in front of the Atatürk Monument in Lefkoşa at 09:00am.
A special moment will see Turkish soil brought from Anıtkabir presented by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Lefkoşa, Ali Murat Başçeri, to President Ersin Tatar.
The ceremony will include the laying of wreaths, a moment of silence, and the raising of flags to the National Anthem.
Later that day, at 6:00pm, the “106th Anniversary Youth Parade” will be held with participation from central Lefkoşa schools, teachers, university students, federations, clubs, NGOs, and the general public.
brt
