The city where the torch of liberation was lit, Samsun, and Ondokuz Mayıs University, which carries the spirit of this struggle, celebrated this historic day with various events during the "17th OMU Open Days" organized as part of the May 19 Youth Week.
The initial program held at the Atatürk Culture Center was attended by Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi and Prof. Dr. Selim Eren, University Secretary General Prof. Dr. İdris Varıcı, faculty deans, vocational school directors, university students, and high school students.
The program began with a moment of silence and the National Anthem, followed by the screening of the OMU promotional video for the visiting high school students. The event continued with opening speeches, providing students with information about OMU.
Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi began his speech by welcoming everyone to OMU. He stated, "Today, we will introduce our university through various events, which will continue until the evening. I have graduated from OMU three times, completing my undergraduate and specialist degrees here. I always include my university in my presentations, whether in Türkiye or abroad. I consider this a duty because I was raised with the mission and vision of OMU.
As you know, we are in the week of May 19, an important date for our country and Samsun. OMU is the only university named after this historic day, giving it significant importance worldwide. We see that our students, who continue their lives abroad, promote our school and mission in the countries they go to."
Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi highlighted OMU's comprehensive nature: "We have 20 faculties and 14 vocational schools. We have faculties in the health field, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine. It is an ideal university for students who want to pursue a career in health. Of course, you should not limit yourself to just undergraduate studies. OMÜ also offers opportunities for master's and doctoral studies. We have students from every region and country. I have always been proud to be a part of such a family. I am sure you will benefit from graduating from here throughout your life. I wanted to share my feelings and thoughts with you as someone who lives here."
After the program at the Atatürk Culture Center, the visiting students moved to the foyer area to participate in the events organized at the Life Center.
The "Open Days," filled with activities and concerts and featuring stands from faculties and vocational schools, invited prospective students to study at OMU. Throughout the day, various activities such as school and career presentations, interviews, concerts, performances by international students, music sessions, sports, shows, and entertaining events were organized. The events, which peaked with concerts, were joined enthusiastically by the youth.
The Open Days concluded with Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Selim Eren and Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi visiting the stands, meeting with students, and providing them with information about the university.