The year 2024 marked the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Japan. Through the efforts of SWY2024 alumnus Ferdi Dumandağ, the Embassy of Japan in Ankara officially recognized SWY2024 as a centennial event.
To commemorate this milestone, Ayşe Süreyya Özavar (SWY2024) organized the “Friendship Diplomacy Gathering” at Marmara University in cooperation with the student group “Fikir Talimi Kulübü,” attracting nearly 60 undergraduates from international relations, communication, and Asian studies.
The event featured welcoming remarks by Özavar and a keynote address by Deputy Consul General NOMURA Takeshi, highlighting historical ties—from the Ertuğrul frigate voyage in 1890 to today’s strategic partnership—and emphasizing the importance of youth exchanges like SWY. An interactive Q&A session allowed discussions on scholarships and collaboration. Alumni shared personal SWY experiences, enhancing participants’ intercultural awareness.
The gathering concluded with networking, exchange of centennial-logo pins, and ideas for student-led projects. A survey revealed 88% felt more motivated toward Japan-related studies or volunteering. Mr. Nomura received traditional Turkish ebru artwork as a token of appreciation. Participants expressed enthusiasm to extend SWY’s spirit into campus activities.
