A freshman’s guide to religion: respecting differences, finding common ground

On September 17, 2026, first-year students attended a session led by their academic advisor, featuring guest theologian Oner Ermekuly.

  The event, organized for students in groups V-12 and V-14, focused on the spiritual and moral upbringing of young people. Students engaged in a discussion about timeless values, culture, and tolerance with the guest expert. The meeting took the form of an open dialogue, covering the fundamentals of religious literacy, the importance of critical thinking in the digital age, and protection against destructive online influences.

    Key topics of the meeting included:

•​spiritual guideposts for the modern individual;

•​the prevention of religious extremism;

•​the role of interfaith harmony in society.

   Students had the opportunity to ask the expert questions that mattered to them—ranging from the correct interpretation of religious texts to finding a balance between tradition and modern life. The theologian provided detailed answers to each question, emphasizing that true faith always calls for peace, constructive action, and mutual respect. We thank our guest for an enlightening and profound discussion!