Students who demonstrated exceptional performance in academic, cultural, artistic, and athletic fields throughout the 2024–2025 academic year were recognized at an award ceremony organized by the Bilecik Provincial Directorate of National Education.

The Education Achievement Awards Ceremony, held at the Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University Culture and Congress Centre, was attended by Deputy Governor Akın Ağca, our Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban, members of the provincial protocol, school administrators, teachers, students, and their families.

As part of the program, a total of 181 students who achieved top rankings in various national and international competitions and brought success to Bilecik were presented with certificates and plaques in recognition of their accomplishments.

Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University played an active role in the World Environment Day events organized by the Bilecik Governorship Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. Held on May 29, 2025, at Pelitözü Lake Park, the environmental awareness event served as a platform for showcasing our university’s commitment to sustainability through its dedicated stand.

The informational booth, established by our university’s Assistant Coordinator for Zero Waste, Lecturer Uğur Kayış, together with members of the TEMA Student Club, featured a variety of educational materials aimed at promoting environmental awareness. Throughout the day, our students provided visitors with information on zero waste practices, recycling, and environmentally friendly lifestyle habits.

In addition to the booth, a series of interactive and educational games were organized for children, aiming to instil environmental consciousness from an early age. Our university volunteers actively contributed to the awareness campaign, supporting the dissemination of an eco-conscious culture and a more sustainable way of life.

Hosted by Afyon Kocatepe University, the 1st Kocatepe R&D Project Fair was held on May 14–15, 2025, with the aim of promoting scientific, technological, and innovative development. The event brought together a wide range of participants, from secondary school, undergraduate, and graduate students to R&D centres and representatives from industry. In this competitive environment, Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University achieved a significant success.

In the “Academic – R&D Centre – Industry Representative” category, first prize was awarded to a research project led by Dr. Betül Yıldız, faculty member in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at our Faculty of Engineering. The project was supported by the university’s Scientific Research Projects (BAP) Coordination Office.

The winning project, titled “Development of High-Hardness Anorthite-Based Transparent Glazes,” was carried out in collaboration with Dr. Zehra Emel Oytaç from NG Kütahya Seramik Porselen Turizm A.Ş. and Prof. Dr. Zahide Bayer Öztürk from Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University.

We extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Yıldız and wish her continued success in her academic endeavours.

Dr. Bayram Armutcı, a faculty member in the Printing and Publishing Technologies Program at Söğüt Vocational School, has achieved notable success in the illustration/painting competition organized for the second time this year by Ganeşa Publishing House. The theme of this year’s competition was “Mythology.”

Dr. Armutcı’s illustration titled “Gilgamesh and Humbaba” was awarded first prize by the competition jury. His work, which offers an original interpretation of the powerful figures from the ancient Mesopotamian epic, drew attention for its creative fusion of mythological narrative and contemporary aesthetic elements.

We congratulate Dr. Armutcı and wish him continued success in his artistic and academic endeavours.

The 726th anniversary of the conquest of Bilecik — the cradle and first capital of the Ottoman Empire — was marked with a meaningful ceremony on Friday, May 30, 2025. The event once again underscored the city’s respect for its rich history, cultural heritage, and spiritual leaders.

The commemorative program began with a cortege march from Republic Square to the Sheikh Edebali Complex. Accompanied by a traditional Mehter band, the march offered a vibrant display reflecting the historical identity of the city.

The ceremony was attended by Bilecik Governor Şefik Aygöl, Bilecik Mayor Melek Mızrak Subaşı, Gendarmerie Training Commander Major General Uğur Ertekin, Chief Public Prosecutor Burak Olgun, our university’s Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban, members of the provincial protocol, academics, and many local residents.

Held at the Sheikh Edebali Complex, the program continued with a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, followed by speeches highlighting the historical significance of the day. A recitation from the Holy Qur'an was followed by a commemorative lecture delivered by our faculty member Prof. Dr. Refik Arıkan, focusing on the legacies of Osmangazi and Sheikh Edebali.

The event also featured a traditional sword-and-shield performance, which drew great interest from attendees. The program continued with prayers, including a special conquest supplication and the ceremonial sela (call of victory). As a symbolic gesture, a flag and soil representing the city were presented to Governor Şefik Aygöl. A mawlid (Islamic liturgical recital) was also held before Friday prayers, adding a deeply spiritual dimension to the ceremony.

Organized under the coordination of the Directorate of Health, Culture and Sports, the traditional Spring Sports Competitions at our university concluded with high participation and spirited competition. Reflecting the unifying power of sports, the event culminated in an award ceremony held on Thursday, May 29, at the University Indoor Sports Hall.

The ceremony was attended by our Rector, Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Nazile Ural and Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul, Secretary General Muhammet Büyük, along with students, academic and administrative staff. During the tournament, student and staff teams competed intensely in football, basketball, women’s and men’s volleyball, table tennis, and chess. Trophies and medals were presented to the top-performing athletes by members of the university administration.

Bringing together students and staff, the event once again demonstrated that sports are not only a field of competition but also a platform for solidarity and social cohesion. In his speech at the ceremony, Rector Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı emphasized that sports are an integral part of university life and extended his congratulations to all participating teams.

A theatre and music event organized by our University’s School of Foreign Languages created a vibrant atmosphere where language, art, and student creativity came together. Performed by students of the English Preparatory Program, the event received high praise from attendees.

Held on Wednesday, May 28, at the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Conference Hall, the program was attended by our Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul. Throughout the event, students delivered theatrical performances and musical acts entirely in English.

Offering the audience an artistic feast, the program not only showcased the students' language skills but also highlighted their self-confidence, teamwork, and stage presence. At the end of the event, Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul congratulated the students and emphasized the significant role such activities play in supporting foreign language education.

A 5,000-year-old bread remnant, dated to the 3^rd millennium BCE, was unearthed during the Küllüoba Mound excavations led by Prof. Dr. Murat Türkteki, a faculty member in the Department of Archaeology at Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University. Discovered in the Seyitgazi district of Eskişehir, this remarkable finding provides valuable insights into the early dietary culture and ritual practices of Anatolia.

Ritual Bread Found at the Excavation Site

The bread residue was found burned and buried into the floor near the threshold in a back room of a residence. Scientific analyses revealed that the bread was leavened and baked using emmer wheat (Triticum dicoccum) and lentils. The results indicate that this low-gluten, nutrient-rich bread was prepared for ritual purposes and intentionally buried into the floor.

Cultural Heritage Meets Science

Prof. Dr. Murat Türkteki stated that the location and manner of the bread’s burial are strongly linked to ritual practices of the era. It was determined that a piece of the bread was broken off and then the rest was burned and buried, covered with red earth, as part of a fertility-related ritual.

Archaeological Discovery Presented to the Public

The ancient bread was presented to the public during an event held at the Eskişehir ETİ Archaeology Museum as part of International Museum Day celebrations. Eskişehir Governor Hüseyin Aksoy, who attended the event, highlighted the importance of the region’s historical heritage and excavation work, emphasizing the contribution such discoveries make to understanding the past.

From Tradition to the Future: Küllüoba Bread Recreated

Based on the scientific data obtained, “Küllüoba Bread” was recreated using traditional methods by the Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality and made available to the public in local producer markets. Prepared using flour from kavılca (einkorn), khorasan, gacer wheat, and lentils ground in modern stone mills, the bread stands out as an authentic reflection of cultural heritage carried into the present.

Our University’s Contribution to Cultural Heritage Preservation

We extend our sincere thanks to the academic team leading the excavation, especially Prof. Dr. Murat Türkteki and all researchers involved. We proudly announce that our university will continue to expand its scientific efforts dedicated to uncovering and preserving cultural heritage.

The 106^th anniversary of May 19, 1919 — the day when Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk landed in Samsun and launched the War of Independence — was celebrated with great enthusiasm through ceremonies held in Bilecik.

The ceremony, held at the Bilecik İstasyon Neighbourhood Sports Hall, was attended by Bilecik Governor Şefik Aygöl, Deputy Commander of the Gendarmerie Training Command Senior Colonel Hüseyin Altuntaş, Bilecik Mayor Melek Mızrak Subaşı, our University Rector Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, members of the provincial protocol, students, and citizens.

The opening speech was delivered by Ramazan Demir, Provincial Director of Youth and Sports, who emphasized that May 19 marks a historic turning point when the torch of independence was lit.

Following the speech, the program continued with a musical performance by students, folk dance shows, and sports demonstrations in various branches. The audience enjoyed the young athletes’ performances, and at the end of the ceremony, awards were presented to those who achieved top rankings.

The name of the Faculty of Islamic Sciences, which operates under our university, has been officially changed to the “Faculty of Theology” following an application based on the University Senate Decision dated November 7, 2024 (Decision No. 457/1). The change was enacted through a Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette dated May 16, 2025, issue number 9818.

With this change implemented by Presidential Decree, our faculty will henceforth continue its educational and academic activities under the name “Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Faculty of Theology.”

As part of its commitment to international academic cooperation and cultural exchange, our university hosted a significant event. The conference titled “Turkish-Hungarian Relations and the Hun-Turkic Council” was organized by the Department of History at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

As part of the event, András Zsolt Bíró, President of the Hungarian-Turkic Turan Foundation, visited our university, met with students, and shared valuable insights on Turkish-Hungarian relations. He was welcomed by our Rector, Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, and later participated as a speaker in the conference.

The program, held in the Conference Hall of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, was attended by Deputy Governor Akgün Corav, our Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban, academic staff, and students. The opening speech was delivered by Prof. Dr. Taner Bilgin, Head of the History Department.

The conference addressed the cultural, diplomatic, and academic ties between the Turkish and Hungarian peoples, whose historical connections date back centuries. Bíró offered participants a unique perspective, particularly through his reflections on the impact of the Hun-Turkic historical legacy on present-day relations.

At the end of the program, a gift was presented to András Zsolt Bíró by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban in appreciation of his contributions.

The 3^rd Science and Culture Festival, organized by our university, began on Wednesday, May 7 with an enthusiastic opening. The first day of the event was full of engaging activities and drew significant participation from academic and administrative staff, students, and local residents alike.

The festival commenced with a moment of silence and the National Anthem, followed by the screening of the university’s promotional film. The program included a harp performance by artist Zeynep Öykü and a stage performance by our university’s Folk Dance Community, both of which delighted the audience. The Dagestan and Caucasus dance performances, presented in collaboration with the International Student Community and TÖMER, received great applause. Another performance that attracted strong interest was the demonstration by the Bacıbey Girls' Sword and Shield Team.

In his opening speech, our Rector, Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, emphasized that science and culture are fundamental pillars of universities, stating: “We strive to instil an approach in our university that blends scientific production with our cultural heritage. This festival is a concrete expression of that vision.” Referring to Şeyh Edebali’s saying, “Those who do not know their past cannot build their future,” our Rector affirmed their continued support for the academic and social development of young people.

Following the opening speech by Bilecik Governor Mr. Şefik Aygöl, plaques were presented to the sponsoring companies. The festival continued with booths and various activities set up across the event area.

On the second and final day of the festival, May 8, participants can look forward to academic presentations, stage performances, concerts, scientific activities, and many more surprises.

The final meeting of the Organizing Committee for the 3^rd Science and Culture Festival, which will take place on our university campus on May 7–8, was held in the Rectorate Senate Hall with the broad participation of our Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul, Prof. Dr. Nazile Ural, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban, our Secretary General Muhammet Büyük, and committee members. The necessary control and coordination were provided for the organization, which will include many activities such as academic presentations, student projects, exhibitions, workshops, concerts, various social activities and local products of Bilecik, and plans were made to complete the two-day festival with enthusiasm and safety.

The new issue of the Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University Faculty of Health Sciences Journal, which published its first issue in 2023 and has been indexed in TRDİZİN since 2024 with three issues per year, continues to contribute to the literature with current scientific publications.

The journal, with Prof. Dr. H. Tezcan Uysal as Editor-in-Chief and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aslı Akdeniz Kudubeş as Editor, publishes original and scientific articles in Turkish and English across a wide range of fields, including health management, nursing, social work, midwifery, child development, ergotherapy, orthotics and prosthetics, speech and language therapy, audiology, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, nutrition and dietetics.

The articles featured in Volume 3, Issue 2 (2025) include:

• "Determination of Nurses’ Self-Efficacy in Pain Management: A University Hospital Case"
  Gülden Basit, Kübra Nur Köse Alabay, Asude Güney
• "Evaluation of Motivation and Mental State of Permanent Workers in a University Hospital"
  Mine Tepetaş, Alaettin Ünsal, Ali Kılınç, Mürüvvet Deveci
• "Improving Health Literacy and Rational Drug Use Levels of Thermal Tourism Employees"
  Necati Bükecik, Filiz Adana
• "Examining Parents’ Digital Parenting Awareness and Internet Addiction Levels"
  Sevinç Akkoyun, Fatma Taş Arslan
• "Determining the Relationship Between Oral Hygiene Awareness and Smile Self-Assessment"
  Yasemin Beliz Önder, Gülbahar Erdinç, Funda Çatan İnan, Evre Baltalı, Sibel Yıldırım
• "Knowledge Levels of Women of Reproductive Age About HPV"

Ayşe Aydın, Meltem Bal

• "Sustainable Dietary Patterns and Alternative Food Sources"

Semra Aksoy

This issue (Vol. 3, Issue 2) includes scientific studies by researchers from many universities such as Marmara University, Necmettin Erbakan University, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Adnan Menderes University, Bolu İzzet Baysal University, and Selçuk University.

Click here to access the latest issue (Vol. 3, Issue 2).

You can reach the journal via: https://dergipark.org.tr/tr/pub/bseusbfd

In order to strengthen institutional communication processes and enhance coordination among units within our university, a "Coordination Board Meeting" was held under the chairmanship of our Rector, Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı.

Communication representatives from our university's academic units and staff from the Office of Corporate Communication attended the meeting which took place on Friday, May 2, in the Conference Hall of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences. In his opening speech, our Rector Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı emphasized the important role communication representatives play in strengthening institutional communication and wished them success.

The meeting continued with speeches by our Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul and a presentation by our Corporate Communication Coordinator Prof. Dr. H. Tezcan Uysal. Following the presentation, which outlined the university's institutionalization efforts, the meeting concluded with a Q&A session addressing the communication representatives' questions.

The Spring Sports Tournaments and Volleyball Tournament organized under the coordination of our University's Health, Culture and Sports Department continues with the intense interest of our students.

The tournament, organized to popularize the sports culture within the university and to provide our students with the opportunity to socialize, witnessed fierce competition between teams formed by students from different faculties and departments.

Our Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Murat Yurdakul and Prof. Dr. Mehmet Kurban, who followed the tournament competitions on site, came together with the athletes and wished them success.