Young Academics Discussed Current Issues Through the Lens of Values at the Center for Education Support Programs (EDEP) English Symposium

As the Center for Education Support Programs (EDEP) operating under TÜRGEV, we hosted the fifth International English Student Symposium, bringing together young academic candidates from various universities. Held under the theme “Current Issues”, the symposium provided an opportunity to address the challenges of our time not only from an academic perspective but also through a moral and values-based lens.

Global Exchange of Ideas
Organized on August 2, 2025, at our Üsküdar Higher Education Girls’ Dormitory, the event featured contributions from 25 participants—most of them senior university students—delivering presentations in English. In addition to developing their English academic presentation skills, participants experienced interdisciplinary thinking and the exchange of ideas on an international scale.

Addressing Contemporary Issues from an Interdisciplinary Perspective
Presentation topics ranged from the role of literature in identity formation to policies on equal opportunity in education, from youth psychological well-being to social media addiction, from the relationship between gender and language to theology in the digital age. All were evaluated in the light of national and moral values. While discussing the impact of culture and values on the individual, our youth also had the chance to reflect on the place of spirituality in an increasingly digital world.

Intellectual Solidarity and Values-Based Academic Development
Our symposium prioritized not only the development of language skills but also intellectual depth and academic research competence. The presentations of our young academic candidates stood out for both their scholarly rigor and intellectual sensitivity. Throughout the event, participants from different disciplines experienced a culture of intellectual solidarity and knowledge sharing.

Guidance and Feedback from Academics
With the contributions of academics and jury members from various universities, our students received constructive feedback throughout the symposium. This interactive environment enhanced the participants’ academic confidence while reinforcing their sense of responsibility to act with wisdom and knowledge.

An Educational Approach that Merges Knowledge and Values
At EDEP, through our projects targeting high school and university students, we continue to support both the intellectual and spiritual development of individuals. With our educational model that blends Islamic sciences with contemporary academic approaches, we contribute to raising young academics who are rooted in national and moral values while capable of thinking globally. Through such programs, we aim to reach more young people and promote values-based academic production.