Sözen: “ATÜ focused on the peak of science and technology”

Adana Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University (ATU) Rector Prof. Dr. Adnan Sözen stated that they are focused on reaching the peak in science and technology, saying, “With our extraordinary diligent efforts, we will be the choice of the best and we will raise the best professionals of the future.”

The opening ceremony of the 2024-2025 Academic Year of Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University was held.

In his speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Adnan Sözen started by condemning the heinous attack in Ankara, expressing his condolences to the martyrs and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. He thanked those who supported the development of the university, especially President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and vowed to be worthy of the trust placed in them.

Rector Prof. Dr. Sözen said, “The great cause and statesman from whom our university takes its name, the late Alparslan Türkeş, expressed that ‘to succeed, it is necessary to work in an orderly and planned manner. We will work until we give our last breath.’ He indicated that the path to success is through disciplined and planned work. I respectfully remember the late Alparslan Türkeş in your presence.”

Being ATU’lu is a value

Celebrating the 101st anniversary of the Republic, Rector Prof. Dr. Sözen commemorated Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all martyrs and veterans with mercy, gratitude, and respect, conveying important messages to the students.

Sözen stated, “We will make our students experience the honor, pride, and joy of being ATU’lu. ATU represents happiness, hope, and bright tomorrows. Being ATU’lu is a value, and you are very valuable to us.”

We showed our difference at TEKNOFEST

Emphasizing that they showcased their differences at TEKNOFEST as a university, Prof. Dr. Sözen said: “Under the leadership of our President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, TEKNOFEST, which is part of the Turkey Century projects and is the driving force behind our country’s National Technology Initiative, has seen great interest this year, as it has every year, organized in our beloved Adana under the leadership of our Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger. We participated widely in this magnificent organization, which our university hosted, with our management team, our academics, and you, our valued students. At TEKNOFEST 2024, where we participated with a total of 22 teams, 9 of our teams that reached the finals won 4 awards in various categories, making us proud. On this occasion, I would like to sincerely thank our academics and teams who represented us at TEKNOFEST 2024.”

If you haven’t instilled love for the homeland

Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger, speaking at the ceremony, expressed his sadness over the terrorist attack in Ankara, emphasizing the importance of raising students with love for the homeland, nation, and flag.

Governor Köşger stated, “There is a bright youth equipped with all the sciences, arts, and technologies required by the age. We are raising our youth well in this regard, but I urge you, esteemed academics. As a citizen of this country, I plead with you. When you fill a child’s mind with knowledge, technology, and modern science, and make them the most successful, if you have not instilled love for the homeland, love for the country, and love for the flag, and if you have not instilled the values that make us who we are, that child becomes a soldier of another country with the knowledge they gained. They quickly recruit them to foreign countries. Therefore, you need to instill national consciousness in these children. You need to give them love for the nation, flag, and homeland. You must raise children with awareness of the values that make us who we are.”

Definitely do not give up

Later, Deputy Minister of Industry and Technology Dr. Çetin Ali Dönmez delivered the opening lecture of the academic year to the students, sharing his experiences from abroad. Wishing for a prosperous new academic term, Dr. Dönmez urged students to never give up in the face of any challenges they may encounter. He also addressed the academics, expressing his hope that they would make every effort to ensure students are raised in accordance with the demands of the age.

Subsequently, Governor Köşger presented appreciation certificates to faculty members of the university who were listed among the world’s most influential scientists. The ceremony also included the donning of gowns for those who received the titles of professor, associate professor, and doctor at Adana Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University.