Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) successfully hosted the “Industry Summit ’26”, held for the first time in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).Organized in collaboration with EMU Student Development, Events and Sports Affairs Directorate and the Industrial Engineering Club, the event brought students together with leading figures from the industry. The summit took place on Saturday, 4 April 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Rauf Raif Denktaş Culture and Congress Center, with Telsim as the communication sponsor, Grand Sapphire Resort Hotel as the accommodation sponsor, and Prova Cyprus providing sound, stage, and lighting support.
The event was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, EMU Student Development, Events and Sports Affairs Director Cemal Kılıç, General Director of Telsim Sefer Tüz, Assistant Directors of Telsim, EMU Industrial Engineering Department chair Assist. Prof. Dr. Oğuzhan Kırılmaz, EMU Industrial Engineering Club Supervisor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sahand Daneshvar, representatives of shareholders, academic and administrative personnel, and students.
“An Important Opportunity for Building Connections”
In her opening address, Zehra Elçin Erdem, President of the EMU Industrial Engineering Club, shared her enthusiasm for bringing together the leaders of today and the leaders of tomorrow on the same platform at the Industry Summit, organized for the first time in Northern Cyprus. She underlined that the event goes beyond a conventional gathering, aiming to foster strong and lasting connections between students and senior figures from the industry. Noting that the summit provides participants with an important opportunity to gain fresh perspectives, find inspiration, and build valuable networks, Erdem emphasized that reaching this stage was the result of months of dedicated work and effective teamwork. She concluded by thanking the Industrial Engineering Club executive team for their contributions and expressing her appreciation to all stakeholders—especially the university administration—for their support.
“An Inspiring Learning Environment”
Following Erdem, EMU Vice Rector for Student Affairs Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu delivered a speech and noted that such events extend beyond being mere gatherings, offering valuable platforms where knowledge, experience, and vision converge. She emphasized that hosting distinguished industry representatives from leading institutions in Türkiye and Northern Cyprus not only enhances EMU’s international visibility but also creates an inspiring learning environment for students. Highlighting that these initiatives provide opportunities to question, reflect, and actively shape the future, Prof. Dr. Zorlu underlined the importance of such engagements. She further pointed out that in a rapidly evolving world, concepts such as technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability are transforming the business world. In this context, she stated that EMU aims to equip its students not only with academic knowledge, but also as well-rounded, forward-thinking individuals who are closely connected with industry.
“A Strong Learning Atmosphere where Knowledge, Experience and Vision Come Together”
In his remarks, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç highlighted Industry Summit’26 as a key platform that connects students with prominent leaders from the business world, noting that the event creates a strong learning environment where knowledge, experience, and vision come together. He underscored that universities should go beyond delivering academic instruction and play an active role in bridging students with industry. Referring to the panels and interactive sessions held within the scope of the summit, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that these engagements would provide valuable guidance for students in their career paths. Emphasizing that success is not defined solely by a diploma, he pointed to the importance of adaptability, critical thinking, risk-taking, and continuous learning, while encouraging students to act with confidence and determination.
Following the opening addresses, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç presented the stakeholders of the event – Telsim, Grand Saphire and Prova Cyprus – and EMU Industrial Engineering Club members with plaques. Moreover, as part of the event program, EMU Industrial Engineering Club also presented a plaque to EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç.
The event continued with a session moderated by Çiğdem Duvarcı featured a presentation by Mert Karaibrahimoğlu, CEO of Penti. Following his presentation, Karaibrahimoğlu held a book signing session in the foyer area for his book titled “Halden Anlayan Lider.
The summit proceeded with presentations by Ahmet Öztürk – CAE of Coca-Cola İçecek Türkiye and Hana Jalel Milesi – Chief Financial Officer and Executive Board Member at Vodafone Türkiye. In their sessions, both speakers addressed current developments in the industry while sharing insights from their career paths and professional experiences.
The program also featured contributions from Değer Demircan Acılıoğlu - Design Center Director at Şişecam, Fidan Ahmet - Director of Foreverbest LLC and Career Coach, and Yelda Domaç Atilla - CFO of Multinet Up, who delivered presentations sharing their expertise and offering students valuable perspectives on the sector.
“Production and Management in TRNC: A Panel Discussion” was held
During the panel moderated by Çiğdem Duvarcı, MOS Glass Director Yaprak Özyalçın, Onan Ltd. Director Leman Onan, Dağlı Cosmetics & Cleaners Director Defne Dağlı and Oza Kahve Director Ergün Oza provided students with insights on the dynamics of the local business environment and management strategies.
As part of the summit, representatives from the Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Industry, along with various manufacturing and supply companies operating in the TRNC, engaged directly with students at exhibition stands, offering insights into industry expectations and career opportunities. Throughout the day, participants also took part in raffles, where gifts provided by Bilal Kuyumculuk, Penti, Astra Plus Dormitory, Pera Mackenzie, Palm Beach, and Crown Salamis Hotel were distributed.
The event, which was broadcast live via EMU’s YouTube channel and social media platforms, remains available for viewing online. Concluding with strong participation and great interest, the summit will also provide attendees with e-certificates.
