A talk event with Abbas Güçlü was held as part of the “13th International Career Days” organized by the Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Alumni Communication and Career Research Directorate (MIKA). Held on Wednesday, 5 March 2025 at 02:30 p.m. at Mustafa Afşin Ersoy Hall, the event received great participation for the students. Güçlü answered the questions of youngsters while discussing the topic of “Youth and Future”.
The interactive talk, where participants had the opportunity to benefit from Abbas Güçlü’s experiences, was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Former EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Abdullah Y. Öztoprak, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Salih Katırcıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, TRNC Ministry of National Education Inspectors Metin Harper and Mevhibe Harper, along with Rector’s Office Coordinators, faculty deans, department heads, academic staff, administrative personnel, and a large number of students.
“To Encourage and Inspire the Youth”
Delivering the opening speech of the talk, Prof. Dr. Kılıç touched on their contentment on hosting such an important figure at EMU and highlighted their pride in being with someone who could assist the young people in finding answers to their questions about the future during the event.
Noting that the talk event, held within the scope of the “13th International Career Days”, would give young people the opportunity to ask questions about life, careers, society, and most importantly, their own futures, encouraging them to think critically, Prof. Dr. Kılıç highlighted that, at EMU, their aim is not just to provide theoretical knowledge to young people, but also to connect them with experts in their fields, allowing them to learn from their experiences.
Mentioning the significance of hosting Abbas Güçlü, an important figure who has over 40-years of experience in the field of journalism and TV, at EMU, Prof. Dr. Kılıç added that Abbas Güçlü, who has been writing a column on education for many years in Milliyet newspaper, is recognized as the journalist who builds the strongest connections with students and gives them the most voice in Türkiye. He pointed out that ‘Genç Bakış’, the discussion program hosted by Güçlü, is one of the most important educational programs. Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed his belief that Güçlü, by sharing his personal experiences about life and career, would inspire and encourage young people. He also thanked everyone who contributed to organizing the event and wished for a fruitful conversation.
“Make Every Effort to Voice Your Concerns”
Conveying his pleasure on being at EMU, Abbas Güçlü provided information on ‘Genç Bakış’ show, stating that the strength of the program come from the youngsters. Adding that the said program is a platform where everyone freely shares their views, Güçlü underlined that people from every age group are among the followers of the show.
Güçlü highlighted that when considering the dynamics of Cyprus, it is essential to acknowledge the presence of universities and recognize the value they add to the island. He mentioned that he has closely followed EMU since its establishment and emphasized that for forty years, he has been advocating for students in the field of education. Offering advice to students, Güçlü said; “Make every effort to voice your concerns. If you don’t express your issues, you won’t attract the attention of those who can solve them. Never stop speaking up. When you ask questions respectfully, you can receive answers to any question.” Güçlü stressed the importance of young people making their voices heard and encouraged them to “take control of your future.”
At the end of the talk event, Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented an appreciation plaque to Güçlü for their valuable contributions.
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç Visited
Visiting EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç at his chambers before the talk event, Güçlü expressed his pleasure on being at EMU. The visit focused on the higher education sector in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), addressing the education system and universities. The significance of student satisfaction was stressed, and it was pointed out that campus life and a sense of belonging are vital.
Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed their excitement on hosting Abbas Güçlü, an important journalist who is an expert in his field and bringing him together with the students. Presenting information regarding EMU, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that EMU always supports personal development of its students.
Present during the said visit were Former EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Abdullah Y. Öztoprak, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Salih Katırcıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici and MIKA Alumni Communication Unit Chief Damla Sayman. At the end of the visit, Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented Güçlü a traditional Cypriot Lefkara work panel.