World Ethnosport Union President Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan attended the 2026–2027 Academic Year Opening Ceremony and Social Contribution Award Ceremony held at Süleyman Demirel University in Isparta on October 16, 2026. Erdoğan was presented with the Social Contribution Award in recognition of his contributions to youth development, culture, and the preservation of traditional sports. As part of his visit, Erdoğan also toured the Ethnosport Village and met with university students.

Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan Honored with Social Contribution Award
The ceremony, held at the Prof. Dr. M. Lütfü Çakmakçı Cultural Center of Süleyman Demirel University, was attended by Isparta Governor Abdullah Erin, members of parliament representing Isparta, Isparta Mayor Şükrü Başdeğirmen, SDU Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Saltan, academics, and students.

During the ceremony, World Ethnosport Union President Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan received the Social Contribution Award following a decision by the university senate. Addressing the attendees after receiving the award, Erdoğan highlighted the role of universities in societal development and the importance of preserving cultural values. Emphasizing the significance of young people growing up with an awareness of their cultural heritage, he stated that genuine success requires patience, dedication, and perseverance.

Traditional Sports and Games at the Ethnosport Village
Following the academic opening ceremony, Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan visited the Ethnosport Village established on the East Campus of Süleyman Demirel University, where he toured various areas showcasing traditional sports. Erdoğan met with members of the university's Ethnosport Student Club and children participating in traditional oil wrestling activities. He also took part in the activities by shooting arrows at the traditional archery area.

Bringing traditional sports and games together with younger generations, the Ethnosport Village provided university students and other participants with an opportunity to discover and experience cultural heritage firsthand.

Meeting with Young People on Traditional Sports and Cultural Heritage
Following his visit to the Ethnosport Village, Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan met with members of the Ethnosport Student Club at Süleyman Demirel University's Taş Café as part of the program titled "A Sip of Coffee, A World of Conversation".

Responding to students' questions, Erdoğan emphasized that traditional sports are not merely forms of physical competition but also reflect the cultural values and ethical principles of societies. Referring to traditional sports such as mounted javelin and oil wrestling, he highlighted the values of respect, peace, tolerance, and compassion embedded in these disciplines, underscoring the importance of passing them on to future generations.

The meeting also addressed the role of traditional sports and games in safeguarding cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of young people understanding their cultural roots and contributing to the preservation of these traditions.

The World Ethnosport Union continues to contribute to safeguarding cultural heritage through its ongoing efforts to preserve, promote, and transmit traditional sports and games to future generations.