Semih Ataş: Erzurum's Rising Star in Turkey's National Mind Games Competition

Semih Ataş Shines at the Konya National Competition On June 27, 2026, the city of Erzurum witnessed one of its proudest moments in the field of education. Semih Ataş, a primary school student representing Erzurum province in the 8th Turkey Mind and Intelligence Games (8. Türkiye Akıl ve Zekâ Oyunları) finals, managed to achieve second place in a tight competition [1]. This competition, held in the city of Konya, hosted the top intellectual talents from across Turkey.

Semih Ataş competed in the primary school category in the strategic game "Küre". With a stunning performance and the use of complex mental strategies, he managed to surpass his rivals one after another and ultimately won the silver medal of these competitions [2]. This success has become a source of pride not only for his family and teachers but for the entire city of Erzurum.

Competing Against Elites from 79 Provinces The significance of Semih Ataş's success becomes even clearer when we consider that the first-place winners from 79 different Turkish provinces participated in this edition of the competition [3]. The Konya finals are recognized as the most prestigious event in the field of student mind games in Turkey, aiming to strengthen analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in children.

Local media, including the newspapers "Yeşil Iğdır" and "Gazete Pusula", provided extensive coverage of this news, introducing Semih as a role model for other students [1][4]. His victory in the game "Küre", which requires high concentration and predicting the opponent's moves, demonstrates the high educational potential in Erzurum schools and the continuous efforts of the region's teaching staff.

Educational Authorities Honor the Young Genius Following Semih Ataş's triumphant return to Erzurum, Süleyman Ekici, the Provincial Director of National Education in Erzurum, hosted the elite student in his office [2]. During this meeting, Ekici congratulated Semih, his family, and his teachers, emphasizing the importance of supporting brilliant talents.

The Director of National Education in Erzurum stated in a declaration: "Semih showed with his determination and will that success can be achieved through effort. We are proud to have such students and hope these successes continue in all stages of his life" [3]. He also noted that mind games play a significant role in the cognitive development of students and that Erzurum education authorities have special plans to expand these activities at the school level.

Future Outlook and Importance of Mind Games Semih Ataş's success in June 2026 once again drew attention to the importance of intelligence games in the Turkish educational system. These competitions, held under the supervision of the Mind Games Federation, provide a platform for students to strengthen their social and mental skills beyond textbooks [4]. For Semih, this silver medal is just the beginning of a long journey, and he is expected to bring pride to Turkey and Erzurum in international competitions in the coming years.