The “Culture, Art and Sports Festival,” organized by the Marmara University Directorate of Health, Culture and Sports between May 11–15, 2026, began on Monday, May 11, with an opening ceremony held at the 125th Year Open Amphitheater on the Göztepe Campus.
Following a moment of silence and the National Anthem, the opening speech of the festival was delivered by Marmara University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur. The festival, which brought together students along with academic and administrative staff, continued with a Turkish Folk Dance performance and a concert by the Turkish Music Ensemble under the direction of Prof. Dr. Mustafa Uslu from Marmara University Atatürk Faculty of Education.
Rector Okur: “We Are Here for the Students”
In his opening remarks, Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur emphasized that the university administration carries out all of its work for the benefit of students. Stating that he has left behind his 39th year in his academic life, Rector Okur said that he sees the duty given to him as a responsibility to serve the students. Emphasizing that the identity of Marmara University extends beyond one’s years as a student, Rector Prof. Dr. Okur stated that being a “Marmaralı” represents a strong sense of lifelong belonging. He noted that the university continues its efforts not only to strengthen academic excellence but also to improve students’ housing, nutrition, and social living conditions.
Rector Okur also shared his remarks on the festival program, stating that the spring festivities had been organized following an extensive preparation process. Emphasizing that a rich schedule featuring numerous cultural, artistic, and sports events throughout the day had been prepared across the campuses, Rector Okur thanked all staff members who contributed to the organization. Prof. Dr. Okur also invited students to take part in the full festival program and expressed his hope that the events would continue with the same enthusiasm.
Festival Spirit Across All University Campuses
Held across the university’s different campuses, the festival will bring together participants throughout the week through a wide range of events, including concerts, exhibitions, workshops, sports competitions, talks, and open-air cinema screenings. Student club stands, concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor activities will further contribute to the vibrant cultural and social atmosphere across the campuses.
The festival program will also feature the “There is Art at Marmara” exhibition, the “Symphonic Rock Concert,” the “Spring Festival Tennis Tournament ’26,” an inter-university dance festival, open-air cinema screenings, and academic talks from various disciplines. While providing students with opportunities to showcase their artistic works, introduce their club activities, and come together through sports events, the Culture, Art, and Sports Festival also aims to strengthen interaction among university students and foster a vibrant social atmosphere during the spring semester.
