Semra Acar, an art history teacher who knew Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his school years, shared her memories of him.
Modern.az reports that Acar, recalling her years teaching at Istanbul Imam Hatip High School in the 1970s, stated that Erdoğan was a “young man with a leader's character” from that period onwards.
According to her, Erdoğan graduated from Piyalepaşa Primary School in 1965 and Istanbul Imam Hatip High School in 1973. His teacher described that period as follows:
“One does not become a leader later in life. He was a leader from the day he was born. He was the class president, and all teachers saw him as special. He even exercised during breaks. He was always first in debates. His speech was excellent, and he brought many trophies to the school.”
Semra Acar states that during those years, she taught Erdoğan subjects such as Islamic art history, the Seljuks, and Ottoman era culture. In her opinion, the historical emphases that the President still articulates today were formed during his high school years: “You see his admiration for the Seljuks, for the Ottomans. This means he had an interest. What I could not achieve, he accomplished as head of state.”
The teacher stated that Erdoğan distinguished himself both in lessons and in social activities: Acar also specifically emphasized his physical activity.
Semra Acar also spoke about Erdoğan's respect for his teachers: “Even after 50 years, he does not forget us. He picked us up in his own cars and took us to events, hosting us multiple times at Dolmabahçe and Adile Sultan Palace. This is a great loyalty to a promise.”
The teacher is currently 82 years old and says that she follows the President's speeches and constantly prays for him:
“Today, Turkey competes with modern states. We have a President who does not hesitate before world leaders. The process that began with "One minute" has reached its peak today. It brought prestige to Turkey.”
