EXPERTS DISCUSSED THE POTENTIAL OF AFRICA AT ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY

The “African Studies Panel” organized by IU Faculty of Letters in order to explore the rich cultural heritage, social dynamics and economic potential of the African continent was held with the participation of ambassadors from African countries and many representatives, as well as experts in the field.

Rector Prof. Dr. Osman Bülent Zülfikar also attended the panel. At the opening of the panel, the Dean of the Faculty of Letters, Prof. Dr. Sevtap Kadıoğlu made a speech. Referring to the cultural and economic potential of Africa, she pointed out that Africa has been in the attention of the world for many years.

In his speech, Prof. Dr. Osman Bülent Zülfikar said that the role of Africa in the global arena is gradually increasing and that our university attaches great importance to the studies in this field. Prof. Dr. Zülfikar stated that academic studies conducted on Africa contribute to the development of an in-depth understanding of the continent's future. Prof. Dr. Bülent Zülfikar also stated that research on Africa should not be limited only to academic circles, but also that it is important to create awareness by reaching out to different segments of society.

IU Rector said that Istanbul University has the goal of strengthening academic and cultural ties with the African continent and that such panels are an important step in achieving this goal. Stating that the better acquaintance of our students and academicians with Africa will enable the mutual cooperation opportunities to increase, Prof. Dr. Zülfikar also added that such organizations will continue in order for our university to play a more active role in the international arena.

Expert Names Spoke about Africa

In the panel held after the opening speeches, under the moderatorship of Prof. Dr. Abdullah Kizilcik, developments in Africa and the future of the continent were discussed.

Nuakşot Ambassador Prof. Dr. Burhan Köroğlu, Ambassador Ömer Faruk Doğan, President of the Association of African Researchers Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kavas, from Istanbul University Child Health Institute.Prof. Dr. Fatmahan Atalar and Africa Expert Burhan Yükseloğlu discussed topics such as Africa's economic development process, developments in the field of health, cultural dynamics and progress in the field of education.

The panel, which continued with questions and answers section, also emphasized that the young population of Africa constitutes a great potential for the continent. And it was underlined that this potential should be supported with the right policies. It was also pointed out at the panel that the role of African countries in the global economy has increased and this situation has further improved the importance of international cooperation.

14:35 | 06.06.2024