As part of the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day celebrations, Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın handed over her seat this year to Ada Rabia Keskin, a primary school student from OMU Foundation College.
At the ceremony held at the OMU Rectorate, Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın expressed her joy at witnessing the imagination and cheerfulness of young student Ada Rabia Keskin. Emphasizing that children’s dreams serve as inspiration for educational institutions like universities, Aydın said, “On this special day, being together with children—the future scientists, artists, and leaders—gives us hope. Ada’s heartfelt wishes reminded us once again how inclusive and imaginative university environments should be.”
She highlighted that April 23 is not only a day of celebration but also a day to listen to children’s voices and make space for their dreams.
During the symbolic leadership event organized as part of the celebrations, 8-year-old Ada Rabia Keskin sat in the rector’s seat. Ada began her speech by thanking Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic, for dedicating April 23 to all children. She shared how curious she is and how discovering new things brings her joy, stating that this special day made one of her biggest dreams come true.
Continuing her speech by saying, “I would like to share some of my dreams with you,” Ada spoke about her aspirations to build a giant amusement park on campus, fly kites in the garden with friends, come to the campus dressed as superheroes, place ice cream and cotton candy machines everywhere, and open a giant ball pit.
Ada Rabia’s sincere and imaginative words deeply moved and amused the attendees.
She concluded her speech by extending her love and respect to all participants and celebrating the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day.
At Ondokuz Mayıs University, April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day was celebrated with children at the forefront. In this context, OMU Foundation College’s kindergarten, primary, and middle school students, accompanied by their teachers, formed a traditional April 23 parade within the campus, joined by OMU staff.
Vice-Rectors Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz and Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer, General Secretary Prof. Dr. Erhan Burak Pancar, academics, OMU Foundation College teachers, and students’ parents also participated in the march, which started at the OMU Foundation College.
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