Dubai: The third Turkish Children's Day was celebrated yesterday with mesmerising music and dance performances by 13 Dubai-based international and Turkish schools at the American University of Dubai (AUD) with the message — children are the leaders of the future.
The Unicef-recognised day is officially known as National Sovereignty and Children's Day, and is celebrated on April 23 every year.
This year's observance in Dubai took place earlier at the Turkish consulate where children assumed seats in the Turkish parliament and symbolically governed the country for a day.
Future generation
Elif Çomo lu Ülgen, the Turkey's Consul-General, told Gulf News: "It is a way to help them understand that they are the future. Whatever we achieve, if it isn't furthered by the young generation, it won't benefit the future. So we dedicate a day to teach them that they will rule the country and be part of decision-making."
The celebration was held under the patronage of the Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey in collaboration with Sultans of Dubai, an informal group of Turkish expatriates which organises and promotes Turkish culture through various non-profit events The programme was held in support of the Dubai Autism Centre.
Ülgen said: "We are celebrating with a huge Turkish and international community, and involving different schools in Dubai. This is about solidarity. "
Ezgi Dora, a 10-year-old student from Universal American School in Dubai, told Gulf News: "We are singing Turkish and English songs. We are singing We are the World because this day is about peace."
Wayne Smart, Director of Performing Arts, GEMS World Academy, said the school was invited to perform by some members of the Turkish community a month ago. He told Gulf News: "Our 26-member, student string orchestra was excited to perform in public. Two of our Turkish students are participating."
Speaking on the importance of imbuing Turkish children with a sense of national identity, Balkiz Sumerler, representative of the Sultans of Dubai told Gulf News: "It's through such activities that Turkish kids can learn about their culture despite being away from their home country. Sultans of Dubai is a volunteer group of 650 members. This is the third time we have organised the Children's Day Celebration in Dubai. We are trying to get new schools involved and reach out to international communities. We support the Dubai Autism Centre, especially through this event held during the month dedicated to Autism awareness."
The celebrations on the day included Turkish entertainers actress and host Demet Tuncer and the Turkish Folkloric Dance Group from Edirne.
