Jessica Morgan:
In an exciting cultural exchange, students from Elhaam Academy recently visited the Turkish House in New York, where they had the rare opportunity to meet M. Ahmet YAZAL, the Ambassador and Consul General of Turkey. The event, filled with insightful discussions and exchanges, allowed the students to learn more about Turkey’s history, culture, and its global significance.
The meeting began with a warm welcome from Ambassador YAZAL, who engaged in a Q&A session with the students. The young minds, eager to learn more about Turkey, asked a variety of thought-provoking questions. The students were particularly curious about Turkey’s linguistic and cultural connections. Some of the questions included: “Is the word ‘ice cream’ Turkish?”, “Why is Turkey considered a Muslim-majority country?”, and “What languages are spoken in Turkey?” Ambassador YAZAL provided thoughtful answers to each query, highlighting the richness and diversity of Turkey’s culture and history.
The session also touched on topics such as Turkey’s historical significance in Islamic culture and the country’s geopolitical importance. One student even asked about the connection between the food “turkey” and the country Turkey, prompting a fun and engaging explanation from the ambassador. These interactions helped demystify Turkey’s complex identity, making it relatable to the students in a way that sparked their curiosity about global affairs.
Adding to the occasion, Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, the Founder of Elhaam Academy, presented the school’s book and crest to Ambassador YAZAL as a token of appreciation for his time and the valuable cultural exchange. Additionally, students displayed their artworks in the form of posters, which were handed over to the ambassador as a representation of the academy’s commitment to fostering creativity and cultural appreciation.
This visit to the Turkish House was not only an educational experience for the students but also a significant step in promoting cross-cultural understanding. By interacting with an esteemed diplomat like Ambassador YAZAL, the students gained a deeper appreciation for Turkey’s rich history and role in global diplomacy. Moreover, the event exemplified the importance of building bridges between cultures, fostering open dialogues, and inspiring the younger generation to engage in international discussions.
The interaction was a valuable opportunity for the students of Elhaam Academy to experience firsthand the impact of global diplomacy and its relevance in shaping their future as global citizens.
