Near East University and Collaborators Unite to Safeguard Lapta's Forests Against Pine Processionary Insects
In a significant collaboration (2022) between the Near East University Faculty of Agriculture and dedicated partners, including Lapta-Alsancak-Çamlıbel Municipality and Taşkent Nature Park, a proactive step has been taken to combat the escalating threat of pine processionary insects in Lapta's forested areas. The joint efforts extend to the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources Forestry Directorate, emphasizing a collective commitment to forest preservation.
Pine processionary insects have long jeopardized the health of pine trees and the overall forest ecosystem. In response, a comprehensive campaign, led by the Near East University Faculty of Agriculture and supported by governmental and non-governmental entities, introduces predator insects to Lapta and Çatalköy-Karaağaç regions. These beneficial beetles, procured from the General Directorate of Forestry of Turkey, exhibit remarkable efficiency by consuming 2-3 pine processionary beetles daily and eliminating an additional 4-5 insects. Notably, they target pine insect pupae, contributing significantly to the reduction of their population.
This collaborative initiative signifies a milestone in environmental conservation, demonstrating the positive outcomes achievable through partnerships between academic institutions, local authorities, and nature preservation organizations.
Near East University Collaborates with TRNC Presidential Earthquake Commission for Vital Research in Yedidalga, Gemikonağı, and Lefke Regions
The TRNC Presidential Earthquake Committee, led by Chairman Prof. Dr. Cavit Atalar from Near East University, emphasizes the critical need for accelerated earthquake prevention efforts in light of recent seismic activities, once again highlighting Cyprus as a seismic-prone region. The earthquakes, measuring 6.6 on January 11, 4.5 on January 28, 5.3 on February 2, and 4.5 on April 26, underscore the imperative to intensify initiatives aimed at reducing earthquake damages.
In a collaborative effort, the Near East University, represented by Prof. Dr. Cavit Atalar and Rifat Reşatoğlu, participated in a joint initiative with the KKTC Presidential Earthquake Committee. The collaborative team visited Yedidalga, Gemikonağı, and Lefke in April 2022, regions impacted by seismic events in 1995, 1996, and January 11, 2022. On-site examinations focused on structures such as a house in Lefke destroyed in the 1995 earthquake, the Gemikonağı Dam, irrigation channels damaged in the January 11, 2022 earthquake, houses near the Soli Ruins affected by the 1995 earthquake, and structures damaged in the Yedidalga stream.
During the assessment, the Committee members, comprised of expert representatives from the government and Near East University, expressed concerns about the single-road access to Gemikonağı, Yedidalga, and Yeşilırmak villages. They emphasized the potential challenges in intervention during earthquakes or any natural disaster.
This collaborative effort highlights the importance of joint initiatives between academic institutions and governmental bodies in enhancing earthquake preparedness strategies and addressing vulnerabilities in susceptible regions.
Near East University and Gönyeli Municipality Collaborate for Sustainable Development Goals Through Innovative Mobile Application
In a groundbreaking collaboration with Gönyeli Municipality, Near East University played a pivotal role in the realization of the "Five Minutes Walking Inside and Near Public Centres" mobile application in 2022. This initiative marks a significant step towards developing policies aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Near East University Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering members, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Gökçekuş and Farhad Bolouri, shed light on the noteworthy contributions of this application to SDGs and society. The mobile application not only enhances air quality, positively impacting individual health by providing easy access to clean air areas but also promotes sustainable transportation, contributing to an improved environmental quality of life for society. The app's features facilitate reduced vehicle usage and greenhouse gas emissions, actively supporting the global fight against climate change.
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Gökçekuş emphasized that this collaborative application will persist in supporting local governments and non-governmental organizations in developing policies that align with sustainability goals. This ongoing commitment aims to propel society towards a greener and more sustainable future, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between academic institutions and local entities.
Fostering Collaboration: International Conference on the Cyprus Issue, Environmental Challenges, and Energy Security
This conference, hosted by the Near East University Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, served as a collaborative platform with support from government members and 40 universities worldwide. Bringing together scientists, politicians, bureaucrats, retired generals/admirals, and energy experts, the event focused on fostering collaboration to address energy security issues in the Eastern Mediterranean and the reciprocal relationship between energy policies and national/international security.
The opening speeches by key figures such as President Ersin Tatar, Deputy Minister Mücahit Demirtaş, Rear Admiral Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cihat Yaycı, and others emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges. President Tatar underscored the significance of collaborating with Turkey to explore energy resources, framing the Cyprus issue as a struggle for sovereignty.
Minister Olgun Amcaoğlu highlighted collaborative projects like the TRNC Drinking Water Supply Project and emphasized the importance of collaborating with Turkey in energy projects. He stressed the need for strategic plans for energy security, showcasing the country's potential to produce its own energy and emphasizing the collaborative efforts to achieve this goal.
The conference, with its collaborative focus, facilitated meaningful interactions among various stakeholders, contributing to the ongoing efforts to find collaborative solutions to energy and environmental challenges in the region.
Empowering Educators through Collaboration: Effective Speaking Course for Ministry of National Education Teachers
In collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, Near East University's Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Yeniasır and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Gökbulut conducted an impactful course titled "Good and Effective Speaking." This in-service training initiative aimed to empower teachers across Famagusta, Nicosia, Kyrenia, and Güzelyurt districts, attracting approximately 250 participants from September 2 to 9, 2022.
The course focused on the pivotal role of eloquence in the teaching profession, emphasizing that effective speaking skills contribute to increased self-confidence and can be cultivated through education. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Yeniasır and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Gökbulut highlighted the broader significance of good speech and voice development techniques in enhancing language skills within the Turkish education system.
This collaborative effort between Near East University and the Ministry of National Education underscored the shared commitment to professional development in the education sector. By providing teachers with valuable insights into effective speaking, the initiative aimed to elevate the quality of education delivery and foster a more engaging and impactful learning environment.