During the grand opening ceremony of the foundation’s headquarters and the Altındağ branch of the KUDEM Foundation (Foundation for Qur’an and Values Education Research) in Ankara, esteemed Prof. Dr. Hüseyin İlker Çınar Hocaefendi delivered an inauguration lecture. In his speech, he informed the participants about the foundation’s goals, which are dedicated to the promotion of science and wisdom while ensuring that art and aesthetics are valued as well. He emphasized the holistic approach of the foundation, which aims to preserve and pass on spiritual, intellectual, and aesthetic values.
This foundation is the sister organization of the Mannheim-based KUDEM and represents another significant step in international growth, following the establishment of branches in Ghent (Belgium) and Hamburg. In his lecture, the esteemed Prof. Dr. Çınar also highlighted the great importance of the foundation’s opening, which includes a scientific library of Islamic studies with approximately 20,000 volumes and artworks. This library will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and interested individuals, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in society.
The opening ceremony’s program offered the guests a special cultural and art experience. The renowned vocalist Mustafa Doğan Dikmen, who has also led the KUDEM choir in Mannheim for about 10 years, presented pieces of classical Turkish Sufi music. Following this, Prof. Dr. Fatih Koca, vocalist and academic, who performed a selection of chaunts in honour of the Prophet (pbuh). Another participant was Prof. Dr. Fatih Özkafa, a calligrapher and academic. In line with the requests of KUDEM regarding design and composition he provided active support in the creation of the KUDEM-collection. The musical performances and the KUDEM-collection, which was inaugurated at the opening ceremony, emphasised the cultural and aesthetic orientation of the KUDEM Foundation, which combines science and art in a harmonious way.
The opening was attended by many KUDEM members from various European countries, including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. Numerous members and supporters from Turkey also participated in the event, expressing their joy over the establishment of the new foundation. In conclusion, the esteemed Prof. Dr. Çınar Hocaefendi expressed his wish and prayer that the opening of the foundation in Ankara may benefit not only Turkey but all of humanity.