AVRUPA NEWS AGENCY (AVA) LONDON — A leading Turkish community newspaper in the UK has been recognised for its longstanding contribution to promoting the Turkish language, supporting weekend schools and helping preserve Turkish cultural heritage for future generations.
Gürkan Sefer, Chairman of Enfield Atatürk School in North London, presented a certificate of appreciation to Vatan Öz, Editor of Avrupa Media Group, in recognition of the newspaper’s contribution to promoting Turkish education and supporting the work of Turkish schools.
Recognition for 30 years in journalism and 25 years in publishing
Vatan Öz, who has worked as a journalist in London for three decades and has published Avrupa Gazetesi since 2002, has consistently used his media platforms to highlight the work of Turkish schools, volunteer teachers and educational organisations serving the Turkish community.
Through Avrupa Gazetesi and Avrupa Media Group, Öz has made particular efforts to raise awareness of Turkish-language education and the importance of passing on the Turkish language, culture and traditions to younger generations.
The award symbolises the shared commitment of those who teach Turkish and those who promote and support the language through journalism and community media.
Öz accepted the meaningful recognition on behalf of Avrupa Gazetesi’s readers and followers.
“Supporting those who keep our language alive”
Vatan Öz thanked Gürkan Sefer and the dedicated educational volunteers at Enfield Atatürk School for teaching children their mother tongue and keeping Turkish culture, traditions and customs alive.
He emphasised the importance of supporting Turkish schools and ensuring that future generations maintain a strong connection with their linguistic and cultural heritage.
A message to parents across the UK
Avrupa Gazetesi also called on Turkish parents across the UK to enrol their children in weekend Turkish schools.
Learning Turkish can strengthen children's cultural identity while also providing opportunities to gain formal qualifications, including GCSE Turkish, which may contribute to their academic development and university applications.
The award recognises the importance of cooperation between Turkish schools, teachers, parents and community media in preserving the Turkish language for generations to come.
