"Sport is a Source of Hope, Change, and Unity"

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Şükrü Rona, a faculty member at the Faculty of Education of Cyprus International University, made a statement on the occasion of the "International Day of Sport for Development and Peace," which was declared by the United Nations in 2013 and is celebrated every year on April 6.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Rona said, "The 'International Day of Sport for Development and Peace,' declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, is celebrated worldwide on April 6 each year to highlight the positive power of sport to create change and to raise global awareness."

Emphasizing that sport is not just a physical activity, Rona stated, "Sport is more than just a physical activity; it is a power that fosters social integration, eliminates differences such as culture, language, and religion, and brings people together without borders. It nurtures values like tolerance, respect, and discipline among young people and strengthens social cohesion."

Rona noted that sport is a driving force for positive transformation in many areas, from education to health, from economics to social development.

He also highlighted the importance of sport in underdeveloped regions, saying, "Sport is a source of hope for those living in underdeveloped areas. Sports programs help individuals acquire healthy living habits, increase their self-confidence, and enable them to play an active role in society."

Assist. Prof. Dr. Rona concluded his statement with, "Let us not forget that sport is not just a game, but a source of hope, change, and unity."