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Gül advises university youth to engage in politics, but within limits
“Advising universities to not be interested in politics would lead our universities to turn into institutions of a totalitarian regime. Our universities are certainly to be interested in issues concerning the country but they should refrain from acting as extensions of political parties,” Gül stated in a speech delivered on Monday at Ankara University. The president paid a visit to the university to attend a ceremony organized for the start of the new academic year there.
Gül praised the university for becoming the first university of the Republic of Turkey and recalled that the foundations of the faculty of law at the university were laid by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the republic. “Ankara University has made significant contributions to the education system in Turkey. It also played a major role in the establishment and development of the Turkish Republic,” he said.
The president also expressed expectations from the country's universities, which he summarized as helping Turkey become a stronger country and bringing more happiness to its nation. “Universities must contribute significantly to the production of a powerful and high quality labor force. Thus, we have high expectations from our universities,” he stated.
According to the president, Turkey's universities should compete with universities both in the country and abroad to be more successful in all fields. “No one is in a closed educational system; therefore, universities should increase their quality of education. The success of universities is measured. First and foremost is the choice of students who choose one university over another after the university entrance exam,” Gül noted.
During his speech, Gül also touched upon academic freedom in the country, which he termed as “above all for the success of universities.”
“If you set out limits for scientific and academic research, then you are in a position to direct it. This means you are in search of proving your truths. However, academic research seeks the truth. It should be unrestricted. This is why I give much importance to academic freedom,” he said.
The president advised university students to make use of their time wisely and in a manner to provide opportunities for them after their education is over. “In our day, diplomas have no importance on their own. Students are in heavy competition with their rivals in the job market. Real life starts once you receive your diploma. If you make good use of your academic life, then you will have a good start in life. Thus, get prepared for life well and make the best use of your professors and opportunities your university offers you. This is the greatest expectation both your parents and the state have from you,” he added.
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