The "Republic Talks" event series organized within the scope of the 100th anniversary of Cumhuriyet newspaper, established in cooperation with Istanbul Kültür University (İKÜ) and Kültür College Foundation. The first guest of the event series, which took place on Thursday, January 4, at 14.00 at the Akıngüç Auditorium and Art Center in the Ataköy building of the Bakırköy campus, was the Psychologist & Writer Prof. Dr. Üstün Dökmen.

The opening speeches of the event were made by our Rector Prof. Dr. Fadime Üney Yüksektepe and Cumhuriyet Newspaper Editor-in-Chief Mine Esen.

“This is our 100th year as Cumhuriyet Newspaper. We now feel our responsibility to deliver information to all segments of society stronger.” Mine Esen emphasized: “In this context, universities have an important place among our stakeholders. We also started our 'Republic Talks' event series, which is our 100th anniversary project of the Republic, at the university. Throughout the year, we will bring together the valuable columnists of Cumhuriyet newspaper with all segments of society, especially young people. “We will reach art lovers with various exhibitions.” 

Our Rector Prof. Dr. Fadime Üney Yüksektepe said, "As the university and the Kültür College Foundation, we are honored to host the 100th anniversary events series of the Cumhuriyet newspaper. Cumhuriyet newspaper means a lot to our founding foundation, the Kültür College Foundation, and our University. Our Honorary President, Civil Engineer Mr. Fahamettin Akıngüç is also a reader of Cumhuriyet newspaper. Hosting scientific and cultural events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Cumhuriyet newspaper is very meaningful for us, both emotionally and institutionally. 

The series of events will be held under the roof of the university. However, our aim is to deliver qualified information to every segment of the society. Our door is open to all lovers of science, culture and art.” she said.

"Gift of the Republic"

Following the opening speeches, Prof. Dr. Üstün Dökmen, who met with our students at the conference titled "From Alchemy to Chemistry, Astronomy to Astrology, Holdin on to Life", gave messages about the achievements of the Republic and the importance of education for girls, while underlining that rational thought and scientific approach are the gifts of the Republic. Explaining the effects of superstitious thinking on the individual and the social order, Prof. Dr. Dökmen drew attention to the balance of science, reason and emotion in order to hold on to life. Prof. Dr. Dökmen said, "Quality of life is to maintain your individual well-being in the flow of life. This is not a luxury. We should be able to maintain our routines that bind us to life even in the most difficult times."

At the end of the event, our Chairperson of the Board of Trustees Dr. Bahar Akıngüç Günver and our Rector Prof. Dr. Fadime Üney Yüksektepe presented Prof. Dr. Üstün Dökmen with a commemorative plate and flowers.