Dokuz Eylul University celebrates 50 years of marine science excellence with a program featuring key maritime figures and insightful discussions.
Dokuz Eylul University's Institute of Marine Sciences and Technology celebrated its 50 years of academic achievements that have significantly shaped marine sciences with a special program attended by distinguished participants.
The "50th Anniversary Special Program" was held at the Institute's building and featured notable attendees, including Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces Admiral Kadir Yıldız, DEU Rector Prof. Dr. Bayram Yılmaz, Ambassador Burak Özügergin, and the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey for the Northeastern Mediterranean, along with university senior management, academics, and representatives from stakeholder institutions.
In his speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Bayram Yılmaz emphasized that the Institute's growth over the past half-century has been driven by a commitment to continuity and institutional integrity. He highlighted the Institute's interdisciplinary approach, which encompasses graduate education, field research, academic production, and institutional collaborations.
Yılmaz pointed out that scientific studies related to the seas are not only an academic pursuit but also hold strategic importance in supporting Turkey's rights and interests in its maritime jurisdiction areas. He stressed that the fundamental role of universities is to produce reliable and sustainable scientific knowledge.
Admiral Kadir Yıldız, in his address, underscored the pivotal role that seas have played in shaping the fate of nations throughout history. He noted Turkey's strategic position, surrounded by seas on three sides, and emphasized the necessity of supporting the Blue Homeland vision through scientific research. Yıldız affirmed that the Turkish Naval Forces maintain an effective and deterrent presence in the seas with a strong fleet and personnel.
Director of DEU Institute of Marine Sciences and Technology Harun Özdaş stated that since its inception, the Institute has adopted a perspective that views the seas not only as physical and biological entities but also in relation to national interests, regional balances, and global processes.
As part of the celebration program, a conference titled "Marine Sciences from Past to Future" and a scientific panel titled "50 Years in Marine Sciences" were organized. The event concluded with a visit to the "Blue Heritage" photography exhibition.
