Selçuk University's Extensive Participation in the 10th Anniversary Ceremony of the July 15 Epic in Konya

The 10th Anniversary; A Turning Point in Turkish Democracy History On July 15, 2026, the city of Konya witnessed one of the largest gatherings in recent years to mark the 10th anniversary of the resistance against the 2016 failed coup attempt. Selçuk University, as one of the leading scientific institutions in the region, played a central role in these ceremonies through extensive organization [1]. Held under the slogan 'The Will is Ours, The Victory is Ours,' the ceremony commemorated the bravery of the people who took to the streets 10 years ago today to preserve the democratic system and oppose the betrayal of the FETÖ terrorist group.

Presence in the Squares; From the Martyrs' Cemetery to the Symbolic March Official programs began with an act of respect at the Konya Martyrs' Cemetery, attended by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Yılmaz, Rector of Selçuk University, alongside Konya Governor İbrahim Akın and Metropolitan Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay [2]. Subsequently, a large delegation of academics, including Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Ahmet Ak and Prof. Dr. Haldun Soydal, along with Secretary General Mustafa Karakışla and hundreds of students, participated in the grand march on Alaaddin Boulevard. This march, accompanied by Mehter bands, culminated at Kılıçarslan City Square, where thousands of Konya residents gathered for the 'Democracy Watch' [4].

Art and Service in the Name of National Unity Selçuk University did not limit its presence to physical attendance; the university's Faculty of Fine Arts showcased the artistic and visual dimensions of this epic by organizing a poster exhibition themed 'July 15' at Mevlana Square [3]. Additionally, the University's Department of Health, Culture, and Sports welcomed citizens who remained in the squares until late at night by setting up refreshment stations. During the ceremony, a live speech by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was broadcast to the attendees, emphasizing the importance of passing the spirit of resistance to future generations [1].

Rector's Message: Protecting the Legacy of Martyrs and National Will Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Yılmaz stated on the sidelines of the ceremony that July 15 is a symbol of the Turkish nation's indomitability against foreign and domestic conspiracies. He emphasized that after 10 years, the spirit of unity and solidarity of that night remains alive in the national memory [2]. He added that Selçuk University, as a scientific center, considers it its duty to strengthen political awareness and national insight among the younger generation so that the legacy of the martyrs and veterans is preserved forever [4]. The strong presence of students in this ceremony demonstrates the deep connection of the new generation with the country's values of independence.