The “Ünilig Gazi Fest Turkish Championships,” organized by the Turkish University Sports Federation (TÜSF) with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ünilig University League, are being hosted by Gazi University between May 12–16, 2026.

The opening ceremony of the organization, held at the Rectorate Poolside Area, was attended by TÜSF President and Bayburt University Rector Prof. Mutlu Türkmen, TÜSF Vice President and Former Governor of Yozgat Kemal Yurtnaç, our Rector Prof. Uğur Ünal and the Gazi University administration, deans, directors, administrators, academics, students, and guests.

The ceremony began with a flag parade and march-past ceremony by all student-athletes participating in the organization, followed by a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem.

Delivering the opening speech, TÜSF President and Bayburt University Rector Prof. Mutlu Türkmen emphasized that the Turkish University Sports Federation is one of the leading federations carrying out extensive sporting activities for university youth both nationally and internationally. He stated that the federation organizes numerous events in more than sixty branches throughout the year. Prof. Türkmen noted that the first of these events this year was Gazi Fest, hosted by our University, and announced that the competitions in 3x3 basketball, foot tennis, fencing, and frisbee would take place between May 12–16, 2026. Prof. Türkmen stated that it was a privilege to hold this organization at Gazi University, the first higher education institution in Türkiye to train qualified human resources in the field of physical education and sports, which is regarded as one of the most important brand values in higher education in the country. Prof. Türkmen concluded his remarks by thanking our Rector Prof. Uğur Ünal, the Gazi University administration, and the federations contributing to the organization of the event.

Our Rector Prof. Uğur Ünal expressed his pleasure in hosting approximately 850 students and 200 administrators from 75 universities across Türkiye at our University for this important organization and said, “I believe this meaningful event will further strengthen friendship, solidarity, and sports culture among universities.” Emphasizing that sports represent not only competition but also friendship, discipline, dedication, respect, and shared values, Prof. Ünal thanked the Turkish University Sports Federation and its President, Bayburt University Rector Prof. Mutlu Türkmen, for contributing to the organization of the event under the name “Gazi Fest” as part of the 100th anniversary celebrations of our University. He also thanked the academic and administrative staff, referees, coaches, volunteer students, and everyone who contributed to the organization. Prof. Uğur Ünal wished all athletes success and expressed his hope that the competitions would take place in a spirit of sportsmanship and friendship.

Following the opening speeches, TÜSF President and Bayburt University Rector Prof. Mutlu Türkmen presented a plaque to our Rector Prof. Uğur Ünal in recognition of his contributions to Turkish sports.

The opening ceremony concluded with Prof. Uğur Ünal and Prof. Mutlu Türkmen chatting with the students participating in the competitions and taking commemorative photographs.