By Doga Kirmizioglu
ISTANBUL (AA) – Türkiye's Altinbas University hosted its annual International Day festival on Monday, bringing together students from 105 different countries for a celebration of diversity and cultural exchange in Istanbul.
Organized by the university's School of Foreign Languages, the festival featured a range of activities, including traditional dance performances, music, food, and fashion shows. Aimed at fostering global citizenship, the festival included interactive workshops and conversations.
Merve Selcuk, the director of the School of Foreign Languages, highlighted the event as a significant opportunity for students to gain insights into different cultures and establish connections. She emphasized that it also serves as a platform for developing creativity and collaboration skills.
Kevser Yilmaz, deputy director of the School of Foreign Languages, noted that the festival helps students become global citizens by offering them a chance to learn about diverse cultures and develop empathy for others.
“It was a very interesting day. We learned a lot and we had a lot of fun," said Saba Alaeddin Mohamed Abuhafes, a student from Libya who has spent his first year in Türkiye.
Tala Kaddoura, who came from Palestine and is set to study Interior Architecture and Environmental Design next year, described the event as a great experience that emphasized the importance of teamwork and strength.
Ibrahim Mohammed Ali Al-Esayi, a first-year student from Syria at Altinbas University, expressed joy over having a "wonderful day with cooking activities."