International Women's Day, observed globally on March 8, was observed at Atatürk University through a variety of events.

There was significant turnout at numerous forums and seminars that examined the accomplishments and societal positions of women. In the forums organized to underscore the significance of women in society, seasoned female leaders motivated young women through the sharing of their experiences. In addition, the obstacles that women encounter in their professional lives and the strategies they employ to surmount them were deliberated upon.

At the Ata Ice Museum's "...And the Woman's Hand Touched" Workshop...

Art events also played a significant role in the festivities. The Faculty of Fine Arts hosted a workshop entitled "...And the Woman's Hand Touched" at the Ata Ice Museum. Environmental awareness was prominently featured in the workshop led by the Deputy Coordinator of Coordination at the Ata Ice Museum, Research Assist. Serap Bulat, where the theme of "sustainability" and women's perceptions of art and aesthetics were discussed as part of the event's scope that encouraged women to express their strong opinions and feelings. The occasion, which showcased the diligence, ingenuity, and aesthetic sensibility of women, garnered the interest of considerable crowds through its emphasis on the significance and meaning of the day.

With respect to the work, Event Manager Res. Assist. Serap Bulat stated, "Our objective on this momentous occasion was to showcase the artistic and labor-intensive aspects of women." We were primarily motivated by environmental consciousness throughout the entire event."I would like to extend my gratitude to all the attendees, Vice Rector Prof. Dr.  Ayşe Bayrakçeken Yurtcan, Organizing Board Members Prof. Dr. Mustafa Bulat and Prof. Dr. Derya Öcal, and Rector Omer omakl for his steadfast support throughout the workshop," he said.

March 8th, "Turkey's Heart Beats for Women" Event

The first program entitled "Turkey's Heart Beats for Women on March 8" was presented in the Kemal Bıyıkoğlu Hall of the Cultural Center during the afternoon portion of the Women's Day events. This program was organized in collaboration with Atatürk University and the Turkish Cardiology Association.

Prof. Dr. Şule Karakelleoğlu and Prof. Dr. Serdar Sevimli served as moderators of the program. Assoc. Prof. Arzu Bilen delivered a speech entitled "Diabetes, Obesity, and Heart in Women." Assist. Prof. Dr. Alperen Aksakal discussed "Smoking, Sleep Apnea, and Heart." Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gamze Nur Cimilli Şenocak examined "The Effects of Menopause on the Female Heart." Lastly, Assoc. Prof. Gamze Nur Cimilli Şenocak addressed "Hypertension in Women." Presentations were given by Yavuzer Koza and Serdar Sevimli, while Prof. Dr. Sevimli delivered a speech entitled "What Should I Do If I Develop Palpitations?"

In a panel discussion, "Women's Place in Society from the Past to the Present" was held.

An additional initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Turkish Mothers' Union, Atatürk University, the Ministry of Family and Social Services, the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality, and the Erzurum Governorship.

The inaugural address of the "Women from Past to Present" program was delivered by Filiz Pasin, the President of the Erzurum Branch of the Turkish Mothers' Association. Athtürk University Faculty of Letters Department of Sociology chair Prof. Dr. Mevlüt Özben; Erzurum AK Party Deputy Fatma Öncü delivered a speech entitled "The Position of Women in Society from the Past to the Present"; Pınar Demir Yılmazel, president of the Erzurum Expertise Regional Board, discussed the "Equality of Women and Men in Our Legal System"; and Assoc. Prof. H. Kübra Ercoşkun Şenol, director of the Atatürk University Women's Issues Application and Research Center, delivered an address titled "The Place of Women in Society from the Past to the Present." "The Role of Law in Combating Violence Against Women" was the title of the panel discussion in which Kursder President and Founding Director of Çözüm Educational Institutions Ayşe Kavaz participated.

The evening proceeded with a performance by lecturer Dr. Derya Eroğlu and her saz ensemble, which was courtesy of the Turkish Music State Conservatory at Atatürk University. It concluded with Nefise Kıyıcı organizing the Poetry Recital.

"We are searching for solutions to the challenges our women face," said Rector Çomaklı.

In observance of International Women's Day, the rector of Atatürk University, Prof. Dr. Ömer Çomaklı, stated that they have orchestrated a multitude of events to bring attention to the importance of women's rights and equality. Their objective is to enhance societal awareness and provide more opportunities for women. Rector Çomaklı underscored the significance of the observances honored on March 8, which is International Women's Day, stating: "Our unwavering commitment remains to facilitating the advancement of our female counterparts to the societal status they merit. We place particular emphasis on approaching the matter in a scientific manner so that we may generate remedies for the challenges that our women face. Moreover, these events are organized to ensure that women's perspectives are acknowledged; I believe it is beneficial for them to communicate their concerns, problems, and demands and to participate in society. With these in mind, I assert once more that all of our women, but particularly the cherished mothers and spouses of our martyrs, are the true architects of our lives by virtue of their sufficient strength, courage, compassion, and love for all. "Good day," he wished.

Directorate of Corporate Communications – March 8, 2024