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Statement by KTMU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan on the Occasion of Kyrgyzstan’s August 31 Independence Day:

“Happy Independence Day to Kyrgyzstan!

Independence is the most powerful expression of a nation's ability to shape its own future by its own will, preserve its language and culture, and build its tomorrow with the strength drawn from its history. In this respect, August 31, 1991, marks the beginning of a new era in the historical journey of the Kyrgyz people, as well as a meaningful manifestation of the national will and determination to live freely.

As one of the ancient nation of the Turkic World with a deep-rooted state tradition, rich culture, strong oral memory, and dedication to freedom, the Kyrgyz people have overcome challenges faced since gaining independence and continue to step confidently into the future. The Kyrgyz flag flying today represents the collective will of the people living on these lands, the values inherited from the past, and the ideal of an independent homeland to be passed down to future generations.

Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University holds a very special significance within this historical journey. Established through the joint will of Turkey and Kyrgyzstan, our university stands as one of the strongest symbols of friendship between the two countries in education, science, and culture. At Manas University, we care deeply that every young person educated here is not only equipped with contemporary knowledge and skills, but also knows the history of their land, appreciates its culture, upholds national and moral values, and remains mindful of the immense responsibility that independence carries.

For the path to sustaining independence lies in understanding the historical will that secured it and in nurturing generations capable of building the future through knowledge. This is precisely where the role of universities begins. Young minds who produce science, think critically, question, feel responsibility toward humanity, and establish strong global connections grounded in self-confidence are the solidest guarantee of independence for the future.

Every piece of knowledge carried by every graduate of our university rising in the land of Manas, every friendship established, and every value produced represents a new link added to the bonds of brotherhood between Turkey and Kyrgyzstan. With this perspective, we consider it one of our foremost duties to contribute to the scientific, cultural, social, and economic development of Kyrgyzstan, and to train qualified individuals who will carry the shared heritage of the Turkic World into the future.

On the 35th anniversary of Kyrgyzstan’s independence, we look to the future of this beautiful country with hope. Guided by the responsibility entrusted to us by our shared history and culture, I believe that we will together build a future where our brotherhood is fortified by science, our youth unite around common ideals, and peace and prosperity endure forever.

With these thoughts and feelings, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the Independence Day of Kyrgyzstan, and wish peace, well-being, and prosperity to the Kyrgyz people.

May the Kyrgyz flag fly freely in the skies forever, and may the independence and sovereignty of the Kyrgyz Republic endure eternally.

Happy Independence Day…”

Prof. Dr. Alpaslan CEYLAN

Rector of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University