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Future Technologies Met at ITU with the National Technology Summit!
Bringing together the pioneers of the National Technology Initiative with technology-enthusiast youth, the National Technology Summit was held on May 29–30 at the Süleyman Demirel Cultural Center, ITU Ayazağa Campus.
Bringing together the pioneers of the National Technology Initiative with technology-enthusiast youth, the National Technology Summit was held on May 29–30 at Süleyman Demirel Cultural Center, ITU Ayazağa Campus.
Organized by the ITU TEKNOFEST Club under the leadership of the Turkey Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) and with BAYKAR as the main sponsor, the summit connected young people with innovative ideas to professionals in the field. It encouraged youth to embark on a leadership journey in the field of technology. Hosting ITU students as well as young tech enthusiasts from across Türkiye, the summit offered two unforgettable days filled with valuable speakers and engaging panels.
During the opening speech on the first day of the summit, Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır, Chairwoman of the T3 Foundation Board of Directors, stated that this first edition of the National Technology Summit marked a significant milestone for the foundation. She also expressed her joy that the event coincided with the anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul.
"A seed will be planted at this summit, and years from now, Türkiye’s breakthrough technologies will grow from that seed."
"A seed will be planted at this summit, and years from now, Türkiye’s breakthrough technologies will grow from that seed."
In her opening remarks, Hıdır emphasized that the National Technology Summit is an essential part of the vision of the National Technology Initiative.
“Over these two days, a wide range of innovative topics—from quantum technologies to nuclear sciences, from entrepreneurship to artificial intelligence, from space research to digital arts—will be addressed by experts in their fields. Perhaps a seed will be planted at this summit, and years from now, Türkiye’s groundbreaking technologies will sprout from that seed,” she said.
“Türkiye has now become a country that develops and designs its own technologies”
“Over these two days, a wide range of innovative topics—from quantum technologies to nuclear sciences, from entrepreneurship to artificial intelligence, from space research to digital arts—will be addressed by experts in their fields. Perhaps a seed will be planted at this summit, and years from now, Türkiye’s groundbreaking technologies will sprout from that seed,” she said.
“Türkiye has now become a country that develops and designs its own technologies”
Also speaking at the opening of the summit, ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal stressed the importance of technological self-sufficiency in today’s world.
“The increase in the domestic production rate in the defense industry from 20% to 80% in such a short time is a significant indicator of the National Technology Initiative in action. These are our achievements, but there is still more to accomplish. Reaching 80% is not the end; full independence means reaching 100%. That’s why this summit is so valuable,” he said.
“Young people are wholeheartedly embracing the National Technology Mobilization”
TEKNOFEST Secretary General Muhammet Saymaz, in his opening remarks, described the National Technology Summit as the strongest proof of how passionately young people are embracing the national technology movement.
He highlighted how TEKNOFEST clubs, like the one at ITU, are becoming centers for youth producing projects, developing innovative ideas, and forming teams all across Türkiye.
“Over these two days, we will listen to experts in various fields from quantum technology to artificial intelligence, from space science to digital art. We’ll witness inspiring sessions that will activate the potential of youth. It is a beautiful coincidence that we’re here together on such a meaningful date—May 29, the anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul. The visionary outlook of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, which was far ahead of his time and rooted in science and technology, continues to illuminate the path for us and our youth,” he added.
Pioneers of Technology Met with Young Talents at the Summit
During the two-day summit, a total of 8 panels were held, covering topics ranging from quantum technologies to nuclear energy, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence. With 33 expert panelists sharing their inspiring experiences with the youth, the panels saw strong attendance.
Moreover, leading institutions in the defense industry and national technology ecosystem not only showcased their products but also engaged in one-on-one conversations with participants to share valuable insights.
Moreover, leading institutions in the defense industry and national technology ecosystem not only showcased their products but also engaged in one-on-one conversations with participants to share valuable insights.
In addition, companies conducted meetings to share career opportunities with technology-interested young talents, contributing to human resource development. Company executives and industry leaders participated throughout the summit to share their experiences and answer young people’s questions.
Technology Beat at the Summit with Interactive Experiences in the Foyer Area!
The foyer area of the National Technology Summit became a true innovation showcase for technology enthusiasts. Innovative projects were exhibited at booths dedicated to tech companies and project teams, offering attendees a chance to explore the latest technological advancements up close. In addition to displays of local and national productions, 12 ITU TEKNOFEST teams also presented their projects, providing visitors with a chance to learn about their work directly.
The Summit Concluded with Energy, Excitement, and Celebration
The closing of the summit was filled with excitement and vibrant moments. After the final speeches, a raffle was held, and various prizes were awarded on stage to the lucky winners.
The National Technology Summit, closely followed with great interest by young people over two days, concluded with a group photo taken on stage to mark the occasion.
The National Technology Summit, closely followed with great interest by young people over two days, concluded with a group photo taken on stage to mark the occasion.
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