Berk Can Dereci, Bayer Yarış
Coordinated by the Presidency's Human Resources Office and hosted by Samsun University (SAMÜ), the Central Black Sea Career Fair (OKAF'24) has commenced in Samsun. The fair, inaugurated at the TÜYAP Samsun Fair and Congress Center, is sponsored by Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), Amasya University, Çankırı Karatekin University, Hitit University, Kastamonu University, Ordu University, Sinop University, and Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, along with the Samsun Governorship, Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, and Samsun Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Ersan Aksu, AK Party Deputy of Samsun, in his opening speech, highlighted the significance of career fairs organized under the coordination of the Presidency's Human Resources Office in merging the worlds of education and business, eliminating the gap between theory and practice, and nurturing young people as qualified individuals ready for the workforce. Aksu described OKAF'24 as an event that will illuminate the future of the youth.
Samsun Deputy Governor Şevket Cinbir expressed that OKAF plays a crucial role in enhancing the talents and qualifications of university students. Cinbir emphasized the importance of such fairs for young people to meet with industry representatives, stating, "Samsun is making significant efforts to activate its potential from industry to tourism. When this potential is mobilized, we will need many young employees."
OMU Rector Yavuz Ünal, speaking at the opening, noted that given the current conditions, having a diploma alone is not sufficient. He stated, "These fairs are a crucial opportunity that teaches us the importance of developing skills behind a diploma and proving them. It's essential for students to establish connections with qualified personnel from the industry and to continue these through internships and employment. Today is the day if you're making a qualified plan for your future. You should seize this opportunity."
Samsun Metropolitan Mayor Mustafa Demir, in his speech, pointed out the significant role of OKAF'24 for the city of Samsun and the Black Sea Region. He mentioned that integrating education with the business world helps students become familiar with work life and assists large companies in accessing qualified individuals.
Mahmut Aydın, Rector of Samsun University, stated that they interacted with students at OKAF'24 with the participation of 8 universities, over 40 public institutions, and more than 130 quality workforce employing companies.
Numerous dignitaries attended the opening ceremony, including Samsun Garrison Commander Major General Davut Ala, Samsun Chief Public Prosecutor Mehmet Sabri Kılıç, rectors of participating universities, mayors, industry representatives, students, and citizens. Following the protocol speeches, the ribbon was cut, and the attendees visited the stands of participating companies and institutions. The Sahra Medical School Band Team also performed at the fair's opening.
OMU also set up a booth at the fair, providing young people with information about career opportunities, internships, departments, social facilities, and campus life, and answered their questions. Various gifts were presented at the booth, which also hosted a quiz competition.
Rector Prof. Dr. Yavuz Ünal and the OMU management team visited the fair area, which attracted significant interest from students. They toured the stands and exchanged information with representatives of participating institutions and companies. The meetings included the presence of Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Selim Eren, Prof. Dr. Sevim Alışır, General Secretary Prof. Dr. İdris Varıcı, Rector's Advisors Assoc. Prof. Dr. Şener Şentürk, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gökhan Demir, Samsun Technopark General Manager Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mevlüt Gürbüz, Career Center Director Prof. Dr. Kemal Yıldızlı, and R&D Coordinator Prof. Dr. Bülent Çağlar.
OKAF'24, which is organized to support students and graduates in achieving their career goals, brings together education and the business world. The fair stands out as a dynamic platform that allows participants to enhance their qualifications and experiences, set informed career goals, and directly communicate with industry leaders. Interview rooms at the fair allow companies to meet suitable candidates closely and directly recruit them. Sponsorship opportunities also allow companies to increase their brand awareness and interact with talented individuals. With these features, OKAF'24 serves as an effective bridge between the worlds of education and business.
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