We Gathered with Our International Students for Iftar
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We gathered at an iftar dinner with over 100 students representing more than 1,200 international students from 85 countries studying at our university.
The international student iftar program, hosted by our Rector Prof. Dr. Necip Şimşek and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Dr. İsrafil Kuralay at the Sütlüce Campus, brought together students from different continents, countries, and cultures around the same table. In addition to our Rector and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the program was attended by Prof. Dr. Dr. Ahmet Kavas, Director of the Center for Neighboring and Surrounding Countries; Secretary General Erdal Cesar; Deputy Secretary General Kağan Köklen; Head of Corporate Communications Recep Yeter; Director of Student Affairs Kaan Fidan; Coordinator of Exchange Programs Dr. Elif Nuray Yıldırım; International Office Coordinator Fatma Kabaoğlu; and Head of the International Student Communication Unit Mesut Olgun. The program highlighted the spirit of unity and solidarity during the month of Ramadan.
“WITH YOUR PRESENCE, WE OPEN UP TO THE WORLD”
Speaking at the iftar program, Prof. Dr. Dr. Ahmet Kavas recalled his own experience as an international student studying in different countries and said, “I wished there had been people to host us in the same way back then. I thank our university for not forgetting you. With your presence, we become a university that opens up to the world.” Prof. Dr. Kavas concluded his speech by wishing the students success in their upcoming exams.
“FEELING AT HOME HERE IS VERY IMPORTANT TO US”
Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Şimşek, stated in his speech during the program that Ramadan is an important period that strengthens the feelings of sharing, solidarity, and brotherhood, saying, “This iftar table is not just a dining table; it is also a symbol of love, tolerance, and solidarity.” Emphasizing that international students are not only students of the university but also members of the greater Istanbul Commerce University family, Prof. Dr. Şimşek said, “It is as important to us that you feel at home here as it is that you achieve academic success.”
“A FAIRER WORLD WILL BE IN YOUR HANDS”
Our Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. İsrafil Kuralay stated in his speech that international students are the bearers of our cultural heritage, saying, “Your becoming leaders, artists, and businesspeople in your countries and carrying this shared culture will make the world a more compassionate and just place.”
“WE AIM TO BUILD A DISTINCTIVE AND STRONG UNIVERSITY”
In his brief speech, Abubakar Ahmadu, President of the International Student Community, said, “I come from the UK, and I am delighted to be a part of this university. We aim to build a stronger and more distinctive university,” and thanked everyone who contributed to the program. The program ended with tea and conversation after iftar.
