The Excitement of Returning Home for the 252nd Time with ITU Day

Our alumni gathered once again at our university on the occasion of the 252nd ITU Day with the theme “returning home, returning to the future.” ITU graduates, reliving the excitement of their graduation anniversaries from the 10th to the 70th and beyond, joyfully reunited to refresh their memories."

On May 25, 2025, ITU alumni received their plaques during the 252nd ITU Day celebrations and came together with their friends to experience the spirit of “returning home, returning to the future.”

ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal addressed alumni and their families during the plaque presentation ceremonies organized for those celebrating their 70th and beyond, 60th, 50th, 40th graduation anniversaries. Held in three sessions at the Süleyman Demirel Cultural Center, the ceremonies began with a moment of silence and the National Anthem, followed by delightful musical performances by artists from ITU Turkish Music State Conservatory (TMSC).

Prof. Dr. Mandal expressed his gratitude to the alumni for attending the 252nd ITU Day and emphasized that their achievements continue to inspire current ITU students. Sharing examples of the significant contributions ITU graduates have made to Türkiye’s infrastructure and technological development, he highlighted that achieving “firsts” and “bests” rather than inheriting them from others adds immense value to the country and humanity. Referring to the example of Karl von Terzaghi, he stressed the pride felt even at institutions like Harvard and MIT for having worked at ITU. He pointed out that the presence of the TMSC under ITU's roof symbolizes the university’s unique fusion of science and art — not a coincidence, but a necessity for a future where science is enriched by art.

Prof. Dr. Mandal noted that ITU differentiates itself from other research universities by not only conducting research but also by identifying and taking responsibility for the needs of the country and humanity. He emphasized that ITU creates impact through its proactive approach and responsiveness to societal demands. Highlighting ITU’s recent academic rankings, he proudly mentioned that the university ranked 79th globally in Engineering and Technology and has maintained its position as the greenest campus in Türkiye for the past eight consecutive years.

He celebrated the impressive global achievements of ITU alumni who have founded international companies and rapidly advanced in their careers. The collaboration protocols and projects initiated with the university were described as both a source of pride and excitement. He also acknowledged the honor of being united with alumni associations not only across Türkiye and the TRNC but also in countries like Canada, the USA, and the Netherlands.

Our Rector underlined the efforts of ITU student project teams striving to be number one globally, drawing inspiration from alumni. He emphasized how these teams embody the collaborative and learning spirit of “being ITU” and thanked alumni for their growing contributions to the scholarship fund — a reflection of their sense of belonging. He concluded by stating that, with the support of the alumni, ITU looks to the future with greater confidence and extended his deepest respect, love, and gratitude to them.

Alumni celebrating their 70th and beyond, 60th, 50th, and 40th professional anniversaries received plaques from our Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal. Representing their generations, several alumni shared their joy and reflections on the meaning of being part of ITU. For those unable to attend in person, heartfelt messages were conveyed via the live broadcast of the ceremony on ITU’s social media platforms.

Alumni celebrating their 30th, 20th, and 10th years gathered at their respective faculties to join in the ITU Day enthusiasm. Following speeches by faculty deans, plaques were presented in dedicated ceremonies.

To commemorate the occasion, alumni gathered at the 75th Year Student Social Center for a special lunch, where they reminisced about their student days.

The celebration of the 252nd ITU Day expanded into a festive atmosphere at the Ayazağa Campus with a variety of events for alumni and their families of all ages. Sporting and cultural activities, prize-winning games, trivia contests, project team and club booths, coffee tastings, and a kite festival created a rich and joyful experience, ensuring unforgettable moments for all participants.