27 February 2025, Istanbul, Türkiye – As part of the ongoing CO-OP Responsibility Program, jointly organized by Darüşşafaka, Bahçeşehir University’s CO-OP Department, and CIFAL Istanbul, students had the opportunity to meet with CIFAL Istanbul team members for a powerful and interactive session focused on Sustainability and Climate Change.
The event featured by Ms. Aslıcan Açık, CIFAL Istanbul, Coordination and Organization Assistant Specialist, who delivered an inspiring presentation on the climate crisis, global environmental challenges, and the role of youth in shaping a sustainable future. Her session also included insightful data sharing and highlighted the need for collective climate responsibility and youth-led innovation. The program was further enriched by the contributions of Mr. Eren Yalınkaya, CIFAL Istanbul, Communication and Partnership Assistant Specialist, and Ms. Olca Sena Uçar, CIFAL Istanbul, Education and Project Assistant Specialist, who shared their personal journeys and reflections from the field of sustainability.
Held under the framework of the CO-OP Responsibility Program, the session aimed to raise awareness among high school students on critical global issues while encouraging them to think actively about climate action, social responsibility, and long-term impact. The engaging conversation reflected CIFAL Istanbul’s commitment to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting inclusive, equitable, and empowering learning opportunities for all students.
“Creating awareness through education and encouraging youth to take action is a crucial step toward a sustainable future,” noted the CIFAL Istanbul team.
CIFAL Istanbul sincerely thanks Darüşşafaka, Bahçeşehir University CO-OP, and UNITAR for their collaboration in organizing this meaningful exchange. Equipping students with knowledge, awareness, and inspiration is a vital investment in a more resilient and environmentally conscious generation.
30 October 2024, İstanbul, Türkiye – CIFAL Istanbul successfully organized two separate seminars in cooperation with Yanındayız Association and Bahçeşehir University, Zero Tolerance for Violence on My Campus and Zero Tolerance for Violence on My Campus II, aimed at raising awareness about dating violence and gender-sensitive approaches among university students. The event was supported by the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Istanbul and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
The first session, hosted at Bahçeşehir University North Campus, featured Assoc. Prof. Feyza Ak Akyol, who explored gender identity, stereotypes, and non-violent communication. The second session, held at Bahçeşehir University Galata Campus, was led by Prof. Dr. İpek Merçil, who addressed the types of violence against women, legal perspectives, and definitions of dating violence.
Building on this effort, the second phase of the seminar, “Gender and Dating Violence Education II,” took place on 25 November 2024 at BAU Galata Campus, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Organized once again in partnership with Yanındayız Association, UNITAR, and Bahçeşehir University, this event expanded the dialogue on gender-based violence and further strengthened efforts to promote inclusive, respectful, and violence-free campuses.
Both seminars provided students with valuable insights and knowledge, encouraging them to challenge harmful norms and advocate for a more equitable society. CIFAL Istanbul expresses its gratitude to all partners, speakers, and participants who contributed to these impactful initiatives. Together, we continue working towards a future rooted in respect, equality, and safety for all.
These efforts reinforce CIFAL Istanbul’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering meaningful discussions on gender equality. Through ongoing collaborations, we aim to develop more educational programs that inspire positive change and promote awareness across academic communities.
11 November 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan – CIFAL Istanbul participated in the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in collaboration with UNITAR, Bahçeşehir University, CIFAL Istanbul and CIFAL City of London. The event featured a key session on “The Role of Higher Education in Addressing Climate Change: Leadership, Innovation, and Impact,” bringing together academic leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to discuss the role of universities in tackling climate change.
The session explored best practices for integrating climate change education into academic programs and training the next generation of leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The discussions emphasized how higher education institutions (HEIs) can contribute to climate action through research, innovation, and policy engagement.
Among the distinguished attendees were Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, Rector of Bahçeşehir University, and Cisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, who highlighted the crucial role of education in addressing global environmental challenges. The session was moderated by Dr. Ebru Canan Sokullu, former Director of CIFAL Istanbul and current Associate Director at CIFAL Global Network, UNITAR.
During the panel discussions, experts underscored the importance of universities serving as key drivers of climate solutions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and equipping students with the necessary skills to contribute to a sustainable future. The session also reinforced the importance of international academic partnerships in advancing climate resilience strategies.
As climate change continues to present unprecedented challenges, CIFAL Istanbul remains committed to empowering youth, fostering innovative approaches, and strengthening global networks to create a more sustainable world.
12 February 2025, Manisa, Türkiye – CIFAL Istanbul was at the launch of SMEs’ Sustainability Transformations In Partnership with the Zafer Development Agency and TÜBİTAK which lasted for 90 Haours in total starting from 12th of February to 29th of February which took place in Manisa, Türkiye.
On February 12, CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR, Bahçeşehir University, TÜBİTAK MAM, Zafer Development Agency, and Celal Bayar University officially launched the Training and Consultancy Program for the Sustainability Transformation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). This innovative program aims to guide SMEs through the journey of adopting sustainable practices to combat climate change and ensure a resilient future.
The event began with an inspiring opening address by Prof. Çisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, who highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change and the critical role sustainability plays in shaping the economy. She emphasized that sustainability is a shared responsibility that requires immediate action.
Following the opening, Asst. Prof. Nilüfer Geysi, CIFAL Istanbul Coordinator, led the first training session. This interactive six-hour session engaged participants in deep discussions about the importance of sustainability, green transformation, and the influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria on modern business practices. The session set the tone for the ongoing journey towards creating a greener, more sustainable future for SMEs.
This program represents a powerful step forward in equipping businesses with the knowledge and tools necessary to adapt to sustainability challenges. CIFAL Istanbul and its partners are committed to helping SMEs thrive in a rapidly changing world, fostering long-term positive impact on the environment and the economy.
“Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future!”
20 November 2024, Istanbul, Turkiye- Kocaeli Bahcesehir Collage, as part of the Global Schools Program, organized the ‘Sustainability Summit’24, bringing together dedicated students, educators, and experts to discuss the future of sustainability. During the event, CIFAL Istanbul emphasized the importance of sustainability, showcasing their initiatives and exploring potential projects within the context of the SDGs.
The summit was honored to host Dr. Yasemin Ülker, Deputy Director of CIFAL Istanbul and Ms. Aslıcan Açık, Member of CIFAL Istanbul Team, who shared their invaluable insights through a detailed presentation on what is the concept of sustainability and its crucial importance in today’s world, before discussing CIFAL Istanbul’s role in promoting sustainability and its efforts in empowering youth to take action on global challenges.
Additionally, Ms. Aslıcan Açık highlighted their experiences with the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform, showcasing how it fosters active youth participation in tackling global issues.
Their presentation highlighted key projects, such as their work on promoting sustainability in urban spaces and youth engagement.
Their speeches touched on critical themes, including CIFAL Istanbul’s impactful projects, UNITAR’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, and the role of the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform in fostering active youth participation. Through their words, they inspired students to envision a sustainable future and encouraged them to be changemakers in their communities.
Following the speeches, CIFAL Istanbul team had the privilege of visiting the impressive exhibition of sustainability projects created by the students and listening to their presentations, which showcased the students’ dedication and creativity in addressing global challenges.
The students’ enthusiasm for sustainability and the SDGs shows through their innovative work and determination to make a difference. CIFAL Istanbul and UNITAR remain dedicated to empowering the youth and ensuring they play an essential role in building a better world.