The 105th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Turkish National Anthem Commemorated Worldwide

March 12, 2026

Turkish Maarif Foundation continues to preserve and promote national and spiritual values through its educational institutions operating in 64 countries. On the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the adoption of the Turkish National Anthem on March 12, events held at Maarif schools around the world introduced the anthem—symbolizing Türkiye’s independence—to different cultures. Thousands of Maarif students speaking different languages voiced the National Anthem with the same spirit and enthusiasm, carrying Türkiye’s message of independence to a universal dimension.

Maarif Schools in Cameroon organized various competitions and activities under the theme “Do Not Fear! The Spirit of Youth Is Here.” During the program attended by the Ambassador to Yaoundé, Volkan Öskiper, participants examined paintings and essays prepared by Maarif students inspired by the theme of the Turkish National Anthem. Within the scope of the program, students who ranked in the essay and painting competitions received their awards.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, an art exhibition prepared by students of Sarajevo Maarif Schools was opened under the auspices of the Embassy of Türkiye in Sarajevo. On the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the adoption of the Turkish National Anthem, National Poet Mehmet Akif Ersoy and all martyrs were commemorated with respect, mercy, and gratitude. The opening of the exhibition, consisting of works inspired by the Turkish National Anthem and created by Maarif students, was held with the participation of the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Sarajevo, Emin Akseki.

Students of Maarif School USA, operating in the United States, also organized events under the theme “The Turkish National Anthem: Symbol of Independence.” The National Anthem, performed collectively by students from different grade levels, created proud moments for the participants.

A commemoration program was also held at the Tetovo Campus of International Maarif Schools in North Macedonia to mark March 12, the anniversary of the adoption of the Turkish National Anthem. Following the program, an award ceremony was held for the Essay and Painting Competition themed “Do Not Fear, The Spirit of Youth Is Here,” organized with the sponsorship of Halkbank and the contributions of MATÜSİTEB. Students from across North Macedonia participated in the competition, and those who ranked received their awards from the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Skopje, Fatih Ulusoy, and other protocol members attending the program.

Maarif Schools, which offer modern educational technologies together with national values, crown their success at international standards with such meaningful ceremonies.