Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

The press is not only the eyes, ears, and voice of the people, but also a cornerstone of democracy. Members of the press, who ensure society’s right to access accurate information, are the voice of the public conscience and a key player in shaping common sense.

With the abolition of censorship in the Turkish press on July 24, 1908, this historic step taken in the name of press freedom became a symbol not only of the profession of journalism but also of social enlightenment. This meaningful day reminds us once again of the importance of a free, independent, and impartial press.

Today, we live in an age where technology advances at a dizzying pace. While these advancements facilitate access to information, they also bring with them disinformation and misinformation. In such an environment, distinguishing truth from falsehood is the greatest test not only for individuals but also for journalists who practice their profession within ethical guidelines. Therefore, the importance of principled, responsible, and conscientious journalism is greater than ever.

With these feelings and thoughts, I wholeheartedly celebrate July 24th Journalists and Press Day, especially for all local and national press workers working in our province, and for all our journalists who work tirelessly day and night to ensure our nation’s right to access news. I wish them health, success, and ease in their professional lives.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: July 24, 2025

ASFA HOLDING Chairman of the Board of Directors, Philanthropist and Businessman Asaf ATASOY, published a congratulatory message on the occasion of “November 24 Teachers’ Day”.

ASFA HOLDING Board Chairman Asaf ATASOY stated the following in his message;
On November 24, Teachers’ Day, when Gazi Mustafa Kemal was given the title of “Head Teacher”, I appreciate the enthusiasm and determination of our education soldiers who are building our future.

Teaching is a valuable, respectable and honorable profession that requires effort, devotion, patience and tolerance, is based on a relationship of trust and love between the teacher and the learner, and whose value cannot be measured by any material reward.

As in every period of history, our teachers continue to raise generations that have a developed sense of democracy, rights and justice, contribute to cultural and scientific developments, are self-confident and use their knowledge for the benefit of humanity.

Teaching is not just a profession, it is the trigger of every social development and the will to solve every problem experienced. Our teachers are part of the solution with a common sense perspective in the face of current problems in every event and situation experienced by our nation. Indeed, during the pandemic process that has affected the world, our teachers working in our province have been at the forefront of contact tracing studies, loyalty social support teams, and aid efforts. On the other hand, our teachers, who have made efforts to prevent students from falling behind in their education with distance education studies, have become the unsung heroes of the process with all these diligent efforts. I would also like to thank our teachers on behalf of all my fellow citizens of Erzurum and Istanbul for all their efforts.

With these feelings and thoughts, I congratulate Teachers’ Day for our teachers who have chosen the most honorable of professions, who have undertaken the most sacred of services, who have the responsibility of raising generations who will have a say in the future of our nation, and I remember with mercy and gratitude our teachers who have passed away, especially our education martyrs.

ABDULLAH YIGIT-ISTANBUL