Arakan News Agency | Exclusive
The Arakan Humanitarian Association concluded its participation on Friday in a series of “Cultural Day” exhibitions held over the past two weeks at five universities in Istanbul, Turkey. During the events, the association introduced visitors to the Rohingya cause and their cultural heritage.
The events took place at Istanbul University, Biruni University, Istanbul Commerce University, Sabahattin Zaim University, and Ibn Haldun University. The Arakan Association’s booth attracted significant attention, drawing over 5,000 visitors. Rohingya students studying at Istanbul universities took on the responsibility of presenting their culture and raising awareness about their people.
The booth featured interactive activities that engaged visitors, including displays of cultural and heritage artifacts, traditional Rohingya dress and henna experiences, and tastings of authentic Arakanese sweets and cuisine. In addition, informational sessions were held in Arabic, Turkish, and English, highlighting Rohingya culture, history, and their decades-long suffering, particularly the genocide and the stripping of their citizenship.
Visitors showed strong interest and engagement with the information provided about the Rohingya identity, their struggles, and aspirations. Many emphasized that such events are valuable opportunities to learn about different cultures and foster solidarity with the oppressed.
Khalid Sultan, head of the Arakan Association booth, stated:
“At our booth, we bring together the fragrance of the past and the spirit of the present. Visitors enjoy authentic Arakanese food and sweets, try on traditional attire, and embark on a journey through the history and ongoing suffering of the Rohingya people.”
In a statement to Arakan News Agency, Sultan added that these types of events, which attract students from across the globe studying in Turkish universities, are a vital platform to amplify the voice of the Rohingya and advocate for their cause.
