Eastern Mediterranean University’s Center for Cyprus Studies (EMU-KAM) administration paid a visit to EMU Acting Rector Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe. The visiting delegation consisted of Prof. Dr. Deniz İşçioğlu, Center’s Executive Board Chairperson; and Board Members Prof. Dr. Resmiye Alpar Atun, Prof. Dr. Canan Zeki, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seray Kabaran, Assist. Prof. Dr. Tuna Karatepe and İsmail Bozkurt.
During the visit that took place on Thursday, 22 January 2026 at 10:00 a.m., new Executive Board of the EMU-KAM was introduced and information of the vision, mission and goals of the Center were provided. EMU-KAM, established to support scholarly research on Cyprus’s cultural, historical, and political matters, was noted for its multidisciplinary work spanning archaeology, anthropology, economics, history, linguistics, and folklore, with plans to realize many successful projects in the 2025–2026 Academic Year. Prof. Dr. Karatepe expressed his satisfaction in hosting the new EMU-KAM Board and affirmed his confidence in the success of their forthcoming work.
2026 Theme of EMU-KAM: Climate Change and Awareness
EMU-KAM Chairperson Prof. Dr. Deniz İşçioğlu provided insight on the 2026 theme of the center which is set as “Climate Change and Awareness”. Statement released by Prof. Dr. İşçioğlu reads as follows:
“Global climate change is broadly described in the literature as the rising release of gases that cause atmospheric warming. Alongside natural processes, human-driven activities—especially economic ones—have intensified these emissions. Consequently, global temperatures have shifted to such an extent that seasonal patterns have become increasingly difficult to identify. The magnitude and speed of warming have surpassed scientific forecasts, resulting in significant economic costs at local, national, and international levels. Additionally, climate change has triggered migration, glacier melt, sea-level rise, droughts, and more frequent extreme weather events, while also placing many animal species at risk of harm and extinction.
In conclusion, the climate crisis poses serious negative impacts on life, with greenhouse gas emissions identified as its primary cause. As these changes stem from human activities and the complete elimination of such emissions is unrealistic, responsibility rests with humans.
Numerous international organizations, especially the United Nations, are actively working to reduce atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions that directly influence human health, economic systems, and the quality of life of future generations. Given the close link between emissions and energy use, government policies play a critical role in addressing this issue.
Enhancing societal awareness of climate change, identifying its underlying causes, and jointly developing solutions are key approaches to managing this crisis. Beginning the fight against global climate change by fostering individual awareness and engaging communities in solution-oriented efforts is critically important. Measures including energy conservation, the use of renewable energy, waste reduction, recycling, and responsible consumption play a vital role in combating the climate crisis.
Recognizing this responsibility, EMU-KAM has designated “Climate Change and Awareness” as its theme for 2026. Enhancing public awareness and outlining concrete actions within this scope constitute an important step in addressing the climate crisis. As climate change is a global challenge, its resolution requires collective action, with each individual’s contribution playing a crucial role. Accordingly, our Center will host a series of events throughout 2026 dedicated to climate change awareness, reaffirming our commitment to working together toward a more sustainable and livable environment.”
