Özyeğin University Hosts a Series of Events in Observance of "World Water Day"

The Approach 2030 Program launched in 2018 by the Sustainability Platform at Özyeğin University continues to explore new approaches to current challenges and inspire innovative thinking and action. Under the theme of “By the Riverbank,” this year’s program opens for discussions the impact of excessive urbanization on ecosystems with a special focus on the dry riverbed on campus, as it takes an interdisciplinary approach to the current state and future of freshwater resources. Meanwhile, the Approach 2030 team celebrated World Water Day with a rich program packed with a broad selection of events, including an exhibition showcasing student projects, panel discussions on ongoing research with distinguished speakers, along with several workshops and a film screening.

The program commenced with Özyeğin University Rector Prof. Esra Gençtürk’s opening address titled “Commonalities That Bring Us Together.” Drawing attention to the significance of freshwater resources and their sustainable management in today’s world, amidst a global water crisis, Prof. Gençtürk highlighted the University’s endeavors to that end as follows:

“As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of our Republic and the 15th anniversary of our University, we forge ahead with unwavering commitment to developing innovative solutions under the guidance of science, and contributing to addressing urgent environmental issues not only in Türkiye but also across the world through our rigorous research. I would like to take this opportunity to highlight once again our commitment to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. At our university, we consistently support and closely follow a wide array of studies aimed at achieving the UN’s SDGs.

Since our founding, we have seamlessly integrated energy efficiency into the construction of our buildings as a result of meticulous research. Starting from 2015, we have placed sustainability at the heart of all our activities as a top priority agenda item, making it an integral part of our University culture. We have built collaborations with industry and non-governmental organizations, which culminated in the establishment of the Sustainability Platform in 2018. All these dedicated endeavors have positioned us among the leading universities both in Türkiye and around the world. Ongoing since 2018 as a great source of pride for us, the Approach program fosters an informal and horizontal learning approach, bridging the gaps between disciplines. This enables us to utilize our campus as a laboratory, in collaboration with our faculty and students from various departments, along with our external stakeholders. Together, we seize the opportunity to develop new solutions and take action through innovative means.”

This year's Approach program features the “By the Riverbank” exhibition, showcasing a broad array of student projects, from a computer game to digital storytelling and imagination works, all centered around the on-campus river, as well as from urban furniture to awareness-building initiatives. Offering a rich selection projects by various student groups, the exhibition will be on display at the Özyeğin University Pavilion Building until October 11, 2024.