World Youth Gather in Sakarya: Sakarya University Hosts Cultural Ambassadors

Cultural Youth Festival Begins at Sakarya University

Today, July 17, 2026, the city of Sakarya once again witnessed the enthusiastic presence of youth from around the world. Within the framework of the "Turkish Language and Turkology Summer School" programs organized by the Yunus Emre Institute, 14 international students from 13 different countries arrived in the city [1]. This event is part of a broader national program where 228 students from 50 countries are distributed across 14 different universities in 13 Turkish cities to get closely acquainted with the country's language and culture.

Sakarya University (SAU), through its Turkish Language Teaching and Research Center (TÖMER), is responsible for the centralized education and hosting of these young people. The goal of this program, beyond language instruction, is to create deep cultural bonds and introduce the historical and natural values of Sakarya to the next generation of future leaders and professionals [1].

Sincere Meeting with the Rector of Sakarya University

Professor Doctor Hamza Al, Rector of Sakarya University, emphasized the importance of youth diplomacy and the role of universities in strengthening global peace during a special meeting with these students [1]. In this meeting, held in a friendly atmosphere, students shared their initial experiences of being in Turkey and the beauties of Sakarya with the Rector. Professor Hamza Al expressed his pleasure in hosting these young people, noting that Sakarya University always prioritizes a student-oriented and hospitable approach.

Students participating in this program, in addition to intensive language classes, visited Sakarya's rich tourist routes, including historical sites and natural attractions. These activities allow them to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world environments and in interaction with local people [1].

Sakarya: A Hub for International and Scientific Activities

Hosting this student group is only part of Sakarya University's extensive activities in the summer of 2026. Simultaneously with this event, reports have been published regarding the success of the ICLEL 2026 international conference held under the chairmanship of the university's professors, demonstrating Sakarya's scientific influence at a global level [2]. Furthermore, earlier in June, the city of Sakarya hosted more than 23,000 teenagers in other summer programs, indicating the city's high capacity for hosting large-scale youth events [3].

These programs, which will continue until the end of July, not only help promote the Turkish language but also solidify Sakarya University's position as a leading educational center in attracting international talent. The youth present in Sakarya today will act as Turkey's cultural ambassadors in their own countries in the future.