Nobel Prize-winning Turkish scientist Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar gathered with young scholarship recipients at an event organized by the Mardinians Education and Solidarity Foundation (MAREV). The event covered crucial topics such as science, education, gender equality, and Turkey’s global role.

MAREV Scholars Meet Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar

The event took place at the MAREV Ataşehir facilities, where young individuals from Mardin had the opportunity to meet Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar, a world-renowned scientist who emerged from the very soil they grew up on. The event, themed “In the Footsteps of Atatürk on the 100th Anniversary of Our Republic,” garnered significant attention with Prof. Sancar’s valuable insights and contributions, broadcasted online from the United States.

33 Years of MAREV: Education and Solidarity Aimed Foundation

Established in 1990, the Mardinians Education and Solidarity Foundation aims to support education, foster solidarity among compatriots, and contribute to Mardin’s social, cultural, and economic development. Having supported approximately 600 Mardinian youth in their university education throughout Turkey, the foundation organized a special event this time by bringing together Nobel Prize-winning Turkish doctor and academician Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar with young scholars.

Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar’s Speech

Opening the event, MAREV President, Attorney M. Haluk Eldem, stated, “In the footsteps of our Republic’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, we organized this event to connect our youth with science and inspire them.” Following Eldem’s opening speech, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar took the stage, sharing his views on topics such as religion and science, gender equality, and the importance of science and technology.

Sancar emphasized the need to separate religion and science, stating, “We must absolutely separate religion and science. Otherwise, religion loses its respect, and science becomes blind.” Highlighting the importance of Turkey’s production in the fields of science and technology for its global prominence, Sancar underlined the significance of investing in these areas.

Producing Science and Technology is Essential

Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar stressed that for Turkey to be among the world leaders, it must produce science and technology. He stated, “True independence and development cannot be achieved by importing science and technology from the West. Production is essential.” Sancar called on the youth to invest in science and technology to contribute to Turkey’s active role on the global stage.

Gender Equality and the Significance of Mardin

Addressing gender equality, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar highlighted Mardin’s role, despite hosting different religions. He stated, “We were pioneers in Turkey in terms of gender equality. We must continue this pioneering role.” Emphasizing the importance of women’s freedom and independence, Sancar showcased Turkey’s progress in this area.

Invaluable Advice for the Youth

Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar sincerely answered the questions of the young Mardinians, sharing his sources of motivation in his educational journey, how he overcame challenges, and the support he provided to Turkish students in America. Advising the youth never to give up in the face of difficulties and to stay committed to their goals, Sancar stressed the importance of being productive in science.

Dreams of Mardin’s Youth and Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar’s Wish

At the end of the event, answering questions about the career goals and future plans of Mardin’s youth, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar expressed his greatest wish: to witness a Mardinian student receiving the Nobel Prize while he is alive and take pride in watching the award ceremony.

Strengthening the Bond between MAREV and Turkish Youth

This event, organized by MAREV to provide educational support to young people across Turkey and connect them with successful figures, is a significant step in reinforcing the vision of Turkish youth for the future. Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar’s experiences serve as an inspiration to the youth, while the 33-year story of MAREV once again emphasizes the importance of education and solidarity.