On the anniversary of the February 6 earthquakes, which were deemed the catastrophe of the century and wreaked havoc across eleven provinces, Atatürk University hosted a symposium.

The enduring consequences of the two earthquakes—the initial one transpired at 4:17 in the morning with a magnitude of 7.7, and the subsequent one at 13:24 with a magnitude of 7.6—remain. Engaging in the "Atatürk University Workshop on February 6 Earthquakes" entailed an assessment of the feasible, impracticable, and necessary measures subsequent to the devastating earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş, eliciting widespread sorrow and inflicting severe physical distress throughout the nation.

It was organized by the Crisis Management Center Coordinator in the Blue Hall of the Cultural Center, with the presence of Rector Prof. Dr. Ömer Çomaklı. The event was also attended by vice rectors, deans, academics, and students. Its primary objectives were to examine the response of Atatürk University to the earthquake, the measures it implemented in response, and its strategic positioning in light of the catastrophe.

"Enduring this pain is exceedingly difficult," said Rector Çomaklı.

Rector Çomaklı delivered the inaugural address of the program, commencing by extending condolences to the deceased citizens and bidding those who survived with injuries a speedy recovery. He stated that the earthquake had a profound impact on a vast expanse of land and a considerable populace. He further elaborated, "At the moment the seismic activity began, our collective attention was directed towards the preservation of lives." Following that, the entire nation promptly came together to discuss how our earthquake victims could be housed in humane conditions and have their fundamental needs met. We promptly formulated and executed the emergency action plan as a university. "In this context, we mobilized the relevant units of our university and sent off our well-equipped staff with the necessary equipment."

"We have implemented the emergency action plan as a university."

As time passed following the occurrence of the earthquake and the realization that tens of thousands of citizens had perished, Rector Çomaklı asserted that they gained a more comprehensive comprehension of the magnitude of this catastrophe: "When our aid workers who traveled to the earthquake zones observed the surrounding landscape, they concluded that additional support would be required." Collectively with every member of our university, we organized an uninterrupted aid network through mobilization. However, our Earthquake Research Center initiated practical investigations in the area. This entire process has once more severely demonstrated the criticality of a well-established urbanization system and the pursuit of a conscientious lifestyle. In accordance with the regulations, ancient structures in our cities are being renovated as part of urban transformations, and houses continue to be constructed in earthquake zones. "We will continue to heal the wounds of this difficult process by keeping our losses in our hearts with the magnanimity of our nation and the greatness of the Turkish State."

Çomaklı further underscored that they were partnered with Adıyaman University by YÖK and that students received courses continuously via distance education and in-person instruction during this endeavor. He further expressed their sincere commitment to fulfilling all their obligations and concluded his remarks by expressing the hope that similar catastrophic incidents will not recur.

Atatürk University promptly deployed its pertinent units to the area affected by the earthquake.

Associate Prof. Dr. Ayhan Doğan, coordinator of the Crisis Management Center, stated that they departed for Malatya the moment the earthquake struck; upon their arrival, the magnitude of the catastrophe was incomprehensible. Doğan stated that they embarked on the endeavor with a team and logistical support capable of establishing a local field hospital; however, that their efforts would be inconsequential once they reached the designated location. They spent approximately one month in the field with different teams, including those from Atatürk University, the Research Hospital, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, and Health Sciences. He reported that the Faculties of Nursing and Health Sciences provided them with human and technical support, that they executed a significant operation, and that the local populace expressed their gratitude and sent them away in tears.

Participants' Opinions Were Exchanged Following the Opening Remarks

The Deputy Chief Physician Associate Professor of Research Hospital Dr. Zülküf Kaya  was a speaker at the workshop. He discussed the health studies conducted by the hospital and the perspectives of the physicians in the regions where they operated, placing particular emphasis on the challenging nature of crisis management.

A member of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Dr. Bülent Polat, stated that the institution and the Mobile Animal Hospital responded to animals in distress in the area and provided the necessary assistance to both large and small animals that required medical care, particularly those that were buried beneath the rubble. Polat further stated that the earthquake had adverse effects not only on human beings but also on animals. Individuals were concerned for the well-being of their animals, in addition to themselves, and their presence as Atatürk University during that time boosted the spirits of those who had been affected.

Associate Prof.  Dr. Mahmut Kılıç, lecturers Zafer Özcan and Cengiz Akbaş discussed the experiences they had on the ground and offered their insights and suggestions. The audience was in attendance at the program. The report was concluded with
Director of the Earthquake Research Center Associate Professor Dr. Çağlar Özer's reflections on the earthquake and the resulting studies that were compiled in accordance with the examples they analyzed.

Soup was served to guests following the program as a memento of the soup that had been distributed by the university delegation that had traveled to the area affected by the earthquake.

Directorate of Corporate Communications – February 6, 2024