As part of a cultural excursion organized by the Department of Political Science and Public Administration in collaboration with the Mülk-i Maarif Club, students visited the Istanbul Harbiye Military Museum. Held on April 30, 2025, the event aimed to foster students’ historical awareness and allow them to explore institutions relevant to political science and public administration in their original context.
During the guided tour, participants had the opportunity to closely examine military uniforms, weapons, flags, war equipment, and original documents from various periods of the Ottoman army. The students followed with great interest the influence of military institutions on state structures during key phases of modernization, as well as their intersections with public administration. Throughout the visit, students not only observed historical materials but also engaged in discussions on how historical experiences have shaped the development of public policies. Documents from the Tanzimat and Second Constitutional Era provided valuable insights into the military dimension of political transformation.
In an academic context, the visit allowed students to critically evaluate historical content and strengthen their ability to analyze how the legacy of the past continues to influence contemporary administrative structures. Indeed, the activity helped students relate their theoretical coursework to tangible examples. For those studying public administration and political science, the excursion served not only as a source of knowledge but also as an intellectually enriching experience, contributing to a deeper understanding of how historical heritage impacts administrative thought and institutional development. It also supported the cultivation of multidimensional analytical skills.
Given the significant role such events play in promoting the holistic development of students and reinforcing historical consciousness, similar activities organized by the Department of Political Science and Public Administration and the Mülk-i Maarif Club are planned to continue in the upcoming terms.
