Tribute Ceremony in Honor of Prof. Oğuz Baykara

The Yeditepe University Department of Translation and Interpreting Studies organized a comprehensive tribute ceremony on May 21, 2026, to honor Prof. Oğuz Baykara, a scholar renowned for his international achievements and academic contributions. Titled "Tribute to Prof. Oğuz Baykara: A Traveler of Universal Culture," the event was attended by approximately 140 guests and students.

The ceremony followed two significant accolades: the conferment of the "Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette" by the Japanese Government on behalf of the Emperor of Japan on April 21, 2026, and the presentation of a "Certificate of Appreciation and Commendation" for distinguished service by the Yeditepe University Senate on May 14, 2026. During the event, university leadership emphasized Prof. Baykara's multifaceted intellectual legacy. Vice Rector Prof. Aylin Yaba Uçar expressed the university's pride, framing Baykara's international success within the context of "cultural diplomacy." The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Egemen Yılgür, noted that Professor Baykara’s deep specialization and the resulting body of work—unswayed by academic trends—merit high professional regard. Assistant Professor Mehmet Erguvan, Chair of the Department of Translation and Interpreting Studies, underlined that Baykara is not merely an academic figure but a "mentor" distinguished by his profound human values.

Presented by Doğukan Günday, the ceremony showcased a life story spanning from Boğaziçi University to the Consulate General of Japan through video collages and testimonials from colleagues. Prof. Selçuk Esenbel touched upon Baykara’s critical role in the institutionalization of Japanese studies; Prof. Suat Karantay emphasized his "performance artistry" in poetry translation; and Prof. Mehmet Ölmez highlighted his inspiring personality. Assoc. Prof. Jonathan Ross and Orhon Atameriç, a friend of 45 years, offered personal portraits focusing on Baykara’s intellectual depth, loyalty, and hospitality.

In the second half of the program, Prof. Oğuz Baykara shared his autobiography and performed a selection of his translated poems. In her closing remarks, Assistant Professor Başak Ergil described Baykara’s life as "an example of the positive impact that curiosity and passion offer to humanity." The ceremony concluded with a video surprise prepared by students and the presentation of a commemorative guestbook.