IUE Childern’s University made it to Europe
Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Children's University Research and Application Center, established with the goal of contributing to the development of children, parents, and educators and producing projects that will serve as a model for Turkey, has entered the global arena. Despite its short history of approximately 2.5 years, the IUE Children's University, with its remarkable work in a short period, has become a member of the European Children's University Network (EUCUNET). IUE, one of approximately 60 universities in Europe that are members of EUCUNET, will develop numerous projects and new collaborations extending from Izmir to Europe. Organizing activities, workshops, and educational programs in various fields such as arts, engineering, sports, and social areas, IUE will have the opportunity to reach a broader audience with its knowledge and experience.
A REPUTABLE ORGANIZATION
Lecturer Ezgi Oral Bozkurtoğlu, the Director of IUE Children's University Research and Application Center, emphasized that EUCUNET is a reputable organization supporting children's universities. Bozkurtoğlu stated that the successful projects they have undertaken so far, addressing the entire city of Izmir, have provided them with a significant advantage on the path to membership. Bozkurtoğlu said, “In all our activities, we now issue participation certificates with the European Children's University Network logo. In our center, we will continue to conduct studies, projects, and activities aimed at children aged 0-18, their families, and educators. We are an institution with the goal of creating and implementing interdisciplinary projects that bring children and all members of society together in the fields of science, art, culture, language, health, sports, and technology.”
WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY
Bozkurtoğlu continued as follows: “Recognizing the interests and talents of children early on, supporting their development in the areas they need is crucial for integrating them into society as more successful and healthy individuals in the future. With this goal in mind, by putting the child at the center, we will continue to work with families, educators, and the community. During these work, taking advantage of being affiliated with Izmir University of Economics, we receive support from experts in various fields such as arts, medicine, engineering, education, and social sciences, and we will continue to do so. We aim to enhance university-community collaboration, support societal mental health, and increase social awareness by developing national and international projects. Additionally, we have started both online and face-to-face activities.”