Tens of thousands compete for Azerbaijani

“Love your mother tongue!” contest, intended to promote proper comprehension, use and transfer of Azerbaijani language to new generations, attracted over 38 thousands students from some 1,115 schools across the country, on February 18.

Azerbaijani-Turkish Schools and Ministry of Education co-organized event offered a feast of spectacular performances to the audience. The event kicked off with the national anthem followed by a promo display highlighting the idea behind.

Turkish High Schools General Manager Mesut Kurnaz delivered his speech recalling the slogan of the contest, ‘our language is our essence’, marking its 10th year.

The performances of finalists in singing, poetry, grammar, essay writing and web design categories followed the ceremonial speeches. Students’ folk dance performances particularly received a high appreciation from the audience. Dr. Enver Ozeren, Cag Educational Institutions Board President, noted that the same songs are heard at the schools of the same nature in over 140 countries. “From Africa to America, you can hear the same songs.” he said.

Following the top finalists’ performances, the jury, featuring celebrities and literary names, announced the champions of the night. Emin Mustafayev in grammar, Zeynep Guliyeva in essay writing, Turkan Haydarove in web design, Turkan Memmedova in poetry and Aslan Ezimzade in singing got the first places. The event concluded with the award ceremony.

Published on TimeTurk.com, 18 February 2013, Monday