ISLAMABAD – The two-week winter camp for children and the graduation ceremony of a three-month Turkish language course came to a successful conclusion at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) on Saturday. The closing ceremony was marked by speeches from prominent figures emphasizing the importance of allowing children to explore their hidden talents from an early age. The event showcased the strong bond between Pakistan and Turkey through cultural exchanges and educational activities.
In a speech during the closing ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood highlighted the significance of nurturing children’s creativity and imagination. He encouraged parents to support their children’s participation in activities that allow them to express themselves and discover their hidden potentials. Prof. Dr. Mahmood also expressed gratitude to the Yunus Emre Institute of Turkiye for their collaboration in organizing summer camps, winter camps, and other educational programs for children.
The closing ceremony commenced with the national anthems of both Pakistan and Turkey, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. Dr. Mehmet Toyran, the Education Attaché of the Turkish Embassy, and Dr. Halil Tokar, the Director of the Yunus Emre Institute, were the esteemed guests of honor. Ergest Limka, the Country Director of Red Crescent Turkiye, Muhsin Balci, Turkish language teachers Mrs. Halil Tokar and Dr. Rashid, and calligrapher Wasil Shahid also graced the event with their presence.
The ceremony was hosted by Dr. Zahid Majeed, the Director of Academic Planning and Course Production, and was attended by deans, professors, and principal officers of AIOU. During the event, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood announced plans to organize an activity for parents and schoolteachers aimed at enhancing children’s creativity and providing them with better training opportunities.
Dr. Mehmet Toryan and Prof. Dr. Halil Tokar expressed their admiration for the unique friendship between Pakistan and Turkey, emphasizing that it is unparalleled in the world. They underscored the exceptional love and respect shared between the two nations, which is being passed on to future generations through collaborative events like the winter camp and Turkish language course. Dr. Zahid Majeed presented a comprehensive report on the progress of both programs, shedding light on their positive impact.
The closing ceremony was capped off with children showcasing their talents by reciting various poems and singing songs in Turkish and Urdu. Parents in attendance expressed their appreciation for the organizers and trainers for providing such a wonderful opportunity for their children to learn and grow.
The conclusion of the winter camp and graduation ceremony marks another successful effort by AIOU and the Yunus Emre Institute to foster cultural exchange and educational enrichment for children. These initiatives not only strengthen Pakistan’s bond with Turkey but also contribute to the overall development and growth of the participating children.
As parents and educators continue to recognize the value of cultivating children’s creativity and providing them with diverse learning experiences, collaboration between institutions like AIOU and the Yunus Emre Institute plays a pivotal role in shaping the future generation’s abilities and fostering global understanding.
With the successful conclusion of the winter camp and graduation ceremony, AIOU remains committed to organizing more activities that help children unleash their potential, while further strengthening the bond between Pakistan and Turkey.
