Students from Bakoteh Proper Lower Basic School, Bakoteh Annex Lower Basic School, Nusrat Senior Secondary School, Bakau Lower Basic School, Latrikunda Yiringanya Lower Basic School and Maarif School Gambia took part in the festivities, which drew wide participation from educators, local representatives and invited guests.
The program was attended by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Banjul, Fahri Türker Oba, and opened with remarks from Yunus Emre Institute Banjul Coordinator Talip Erdoğan. In his speech, Erdoğan highlighted the institute’s mission of promoting peace and cultural understanding.
“As Yunus Emre Institute, we carry Yunus’s call ‘Let us get acquainted’ to today’s world as a manifesto of peace. This special day is not only for Türkiye; it is a unique day when children of the whole world come together in a climate of brotherhood and love becomes universal,” Erdoğan said.
Ambassador Oba underscored the historical significance of April 23, 1920, when, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Türkiye declared national sovereignty and established its Grand National Assembly.
He noted that Atatürk’s decision to dedicate the day to children gives it a universal dimension, symbolizing peace, unity and a shared future across cultures. He also reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening ties with The Gambia, particularly in initiatives that support children’s development.
The celebration featured a lively lineup of performances, with each participating school presenting traditional dances. Students learning Turkish at the Yunus Emre Institute performed a zeybek dance, recited Turkish poems and sang songs. A Turkish folk dance showcase by Flex Fuzion Dance Academy, including horon and harmandalı, was met with enthusiastic applause.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, popular Gambian artist Mariama Cham entertained the children with a memorable concert. At the end of the event, all participating students received school supplies, including bags, notebooks and stationery, while certificates of appreciation were presented to school representatives.
The event concluded on a joyful note, with children celebrating the spirit of April 23 in a colorful display of unity, culture and shared happiness.
