Minister Tekin received students from various schools on the occasion of the 104th anniversary of the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye and April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day.

 

After attending ceremonies at Anıtkabir and the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, Minister Tekin arrived at the Ministry, where he was greeted by children holding Turkish flags. The children accompanied Minister Tekin to his office, accompanied by a marching band.

 

Minister Tekin engaged in conversation with the visiting students for a while, after which he representatively handed over his position to 11-year-old student Irmak Genç from Gölbaşı İnönü Middle School.

 

Minister Tekin remarked, "April 23 is a celebration for both children and the nation. When both happen at the same time, the entire nation of 86 million celebrates together. Now our new Minister of National Education is here. Hopefully, she will make good decisions for all of you."

 

Young Minister Genç expressed the joy of being the heirs of one of the world's most beautiful countries.

 

Expressing that she had the opportunity to understand, at least a little, the excitement and the sense of responsibility of being the Minister of National Education of the Republic of Türkiye  and carrying this responsibility since the moment she took office, Genç said, "If I could, I would like to bring all children and all my friends to the best standards as soon as possible. I have seen how things work here, and I believe that educational opportunities are improving every day. Of course, I also have a call: on this beautiful day gifted to us by Atatürk, I invite all children of the world to share in our joy and join together to make our world more sustainable, fair, and happy."

 

On this special day dedicated to children, Genç also addressed the events happening in Gaza, stating, 'I wish for the sorrowful days of our friends in Gaza to come to an end. I wish for peace for all children around the world and hope that no child has to experience such suffering.

 

Expressing that it is the duty of children to further advance this heavenly homeland they have inherited and to protect and enhance their trusts, Genç emphasized that there should be unity and solidarity while fulfilling this duty.

 

Responding to journalists' questions, Genç answered the question, "What will be your first action?" by saying, "I plan to open more workshops, music, art, and sports facilities in schools because I want our children to pay more attention to their self-improvement.

 

When asked if there would be any changes to break and holiday periods, Genç responded, "I believe that the break and holiday periods are quite sufficient."

 

Minister Tekin and Irmak Genç visited the activity area established for children in the Ministry's garden for the first time during the April 23 celebrations this year.

 

Minister Tekin met with nearly 1000 children participating in the activities set up in the Ministry's garden, including workshops, traditional games, musical activities, science and art workshops, traditional games, and inflatable toys. He offered popcorn and various gifts to the young guests.

 

The students distributed the "Children's Newspaper," containing special messages for the holiday, and the special edition of the "Hâkimiyet-i Milliye" newspaper dedicated to April 23 to the Ministry's young guests and passers-by on Atatürk Boulevard.