Students from Western Thrace Turkish Teachers Association visit Erkan Aydın in Bursa Cultural Program
A youth group from the Western Thrace Turkish Teachers Association and the YAKAMOZ ensemble visited Osmangazi Municipality Mayor Erkan Aydın as part of a cultural exchange program highlighting education, arts, and community ties between Western Thrace and Türkiye.
Official Meeting at Osmangazi Municipality
The delegation, including association officials and students performing poetry and music, was received at the municipality building in Bursa.
Discussions focused on the educational situation and challenges faced by the Turkish minority in Western Thrace, as well as broader issues affecting civil society organizations.
Mayor Erkan Aydın expressed satisfaction with the visit and highlighted his appreciation for the students’ cultural performances, noting that he remembered each participant’s contribution during the program.
The meeting concluded with a mutual exchange of gifts, symbolizing goodwill and cooperation.
Broader Cultural Tour Across Bursa
As part of the visit program, the delegation explored several of Bursa’s historical and cultural landmarks, including:
- Tophane Clock Tower
- Tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi
- Green Tomb
- Panorama 1326 Bursa Conquest Museum
- Gökmen Space and Aviation Training Center
- Bursa Zoo
- Gölyazı Village
The itinerary aimed to provide students with a multidimensional educational experience, combining history, culture, science, and nature.
Civil Society Engagement
During the program, representatives from the delegation also visited the Bursa branch of the Western Thrace Turks Solidarity Association Bursa Branch. The meeting addressed educational challenges, NGO cooperation, and legal issues affecting minority communities.
Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening solidarity and cooperation to address shared concerns.
Appreciation and Closing Remarks
The Western Thrace Turkish Teachers Association expressed gratitude to Osmangazi Municipality and all contributors, especially local organizers who facilitated the program and guided the delegation throughout Bursa.
They highlighted that the visit was highly meaningful for the youth, offering both cultural enrichment and educational value.
