Aegean Region

Sinanbey Primary School

We Were at Sinanbey Primary School as Part of the Science in Blue Project: 'How Deep We Can Dive' – Conference and Communication System Exhibition

On April 25, 2025, the Science in Blue project visited Sinanbey Primary School with an event themed "How Deep We Can Dive." The day featured an engaging conference followed by an interactive exhibition on underwater communication systems.During the conference, students learned about how deep divers can go, the special equipment required for such depths, and the challenges of communicating underwater. They discovered why regular speech isn’t possible while diving and how divers rely on specially developed communication technologies to stay safe and coordinated in deep-sea environments.Following the presentation, an underwater communication system exhibition was held. Students were given the chance to wear diving masks and test a simulated communication setup. This hands-on activity allowed them to experience how divers send and receive messages beneath the surface and highlighted the importance of clear, reliable communication while underwater.The event sparked students' curiosity about diving, science, and ocean technology. Through such interactive experiences, the Science in Blue project continues to bring ocean exploration to life for young minds and encourage scientific thinking from an early age.

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Fethiye Science and Art Center

The event titled “Cultural Heritage in Inland Waters”, carried out within the scope of the European Union Project named “Science in Blue”, was held on April 26, 2025 by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan ÖNİZ, Head of the Department of Protection and Restoration of the Faculty of Fine Arts of Akdeniz University, and Dr. Ceyda ÖZTOSUN, one of the researchers of the Underwater Research Project of the Mediterranean Coasts of Türkiye, at the Fethiye Science and Art Center. Approximately 70 students, school manager, submanagers, 5 teachers and parents of the students also attended the event, which continued between 10:00 to 12:00. Before the event, the researchers received information about the school from school manager Hasibe Polat DAYIOĞLU. Stating that the school acts with the aim of providing education in the field of science and art for the development of the talented children, DAYIOĞLU mentioned that the school takes part in many national and international projects within this framework. The event mainly focused on underwater archaeological studies carried out in the inland waters of Türkiye plus scuba diving technologies. In this context, detailed information was shared about the current state of underwater archaeology in Türkiye and the world since the first underwater archaeology studies initiated by Osman Hamdi Bey. As a result of the questions asked to the students by the researchers, it was understood that the students already had a basic level of knowledge about underwater. The topics that attracted the students' attention the most in the presentations were the introduction of diving equipment and underwater robots. At the end of the event, the students stated that they wanted to visit the research vessel named UPL, which belongs to the Mediterranean Coast Underwater Research Project of Türkiye. Dr. ÖNİZ, the head of the research planned to start in June in Fethiye, promised the students to tour the ship with their teachers.

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Hatice Görgülü Primary School

We Were at Hatice Görgülü Primary School as Part of the Science in Blue Project: Underwater Robots Supporting Archaeologists on Display

On April 21, 2025, as part of the Science in Blue project, an engaging visit was made to Hatice Görgülü Primary School. During this special event, students explored the fascinating world beneath the sea and learned about robotic technologies that assist archaeologists in underwater excavations.The event began with an informative presentation on underwater archaeology. Students were introduced to the technologies used in deep-sea excavations and the challenges faced by underwater archaeologists. The presentation highlighted the crucial role of robots in this field—how they are used in hard-to-reach areas and how they help recover delicate historical artifacts without causing damage.Following the presentation, a special underwater robot exhibition was held at the school. The exhibition featured various robot models used in underwater exploration. Students had the chance to closely examine unmanned vehicles equipped with underwater cameras, mini submarines with robotic arms, and specialized robots used in archaeological research. The robotic arms capable of handling fragile artifacts with precision were of particular interest.Throughout the exhibition, students were given detailed explanations about how these robots operate, how they are controlled underwater, and how they contribute to scientific discovery. They also received insights into potential career paths in this exciting intersection of engineering and archaeology.The Science in Blue event allowed students to gain knowledge about underwater technologies while encouraging them to take interest in the blend of science and cultural heritage. Events like these play an important role in nurturing environmentally and scientifically conscious individuals for the future.

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Geyre Secondary School

We Were at Geyre Secondary School as Part of the Science in Blue Project: Robot and Underwater Tablet Exhibition on the Theme 'Working Fast and Safe Under the Ocean’

On April 22, 2025, as part of the Science in Blue project, a special event was held at Geyre Secondary School under the theme "Working Fast and Safe Under the Ocean." During this event, students had the opportunity to explore underwater technologies, including robotic systems and waterproof tablets used in underwater research.The program began with an informative presentation on how underwater scientific operations are carried out efficiently and safely. The presentation explained how advanced underwater robots function in challenging conditions, their ability to respond quickly in emergencies, and how they enhance diver safety. In addition, the use of waterproof tablets for data collection and real-time communication in underwater environments was also demonstrated.Following the presentation, a robot and underwater tablet exhibition was organized at the school. The exhibition featured various robots used in underwater exploration, as well as specialized tablets used by divers. Students were able to closely examine the equipment and learn how each device plays a role in scientific missions.Throughout the exhibition, students were given detailed explanations on how these technologies work, how they are operated underwater, and how they contribute to research and discovery. They also received guidance on career paths in engineering and marine sciences, encouraging them to consider future professions in these fields.The event at Geyre Secondary School increased students’ curiosity about underwater technologies and inspired them to think scientifically. The Science in Blue project continues to play a vital role in helping young people build stronger connections with science, technology, and the environment.

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Yaşar Akar Primary School

The Legacy of the Oceans Inspired Young Hearts in Uşak!

As part of the Science in Blue project, our event titled “The Legacy of the Oceans” was held with 4th grade students at Yaşar Akar Primary School in Uşak. Supported by the Horizon Europe Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, this special event aimed to raise awareness about ocean literacy and the importance of preserving underwater cultural heritage through an engaging and interactive program. Diving stories were shared, and topics like oceanography and underwater archaeology were introduced with vivid examples. The students' enthusiastic participation and curious questions reflected a growing interest in marine science and environmental responsibility. The event ended with a certificate presentation to the school administration and a memorable group photo.

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Kırçiçeği Anatolian High School

We Were at Kırçiçeği Anatolian High School as Part of the Science in Blue Project: Diving-Focused Event on 'How to Find Treasures Underwater'

On April 22, 2025, as part of the Science in Blue project, an exciting and educational event was held at Kırçiçeği Anatolian High School under the theme "How to Find Treasures Underwater." The session focused primarily on diving techniques, equipment used in underwater exploration, and the crucial role divers play in scientific and archaeological research.The event began with a captivating presentation on how professional divers operate beneath the surface. Students learned how deep-sea dives are planned, what divers must consider during their descent, and how they move and work underwater. Key equipment such as masks, fins, air tanks, and dive computers were explained in detail, along with underwater communication systems.The presentation also explored where treasures and artifacts are commonly found and how divers investigate shipwrecks and recover archaeological remains. The role of divers as both explorers and scientific data collectors was highlighted, showing that diving is not only a physical task but also an intellectual and investigative mission.Throughout the session, students were introduced to the challenges divers face, the safety protocols they follow, and the discipline required in underwater missions. They came to understand that diving is more than a sport—it is also a powerful tool for scientific discovery.This event encouraged students to look at the underwater world from a scientific perspective and sparked interest in diving and marine archaeology. The Science in Blue project continues to connect young people with ocean science and inspire them to become curious, environmentally aware learners.

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Kazım Kaynak Anatolian High School

As part of the “Science in the Blue” project’s school visits in the Eagean Region of Turkey, an event was organized on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 11:00 am. at Kazim Kaynak Anatolian High School, located in the Denizli province. The visit was conducted by project team members Alper Yıldız and Emine Şükran Okudan. During the event, Emine Şükran Okudan delivered a presentation titled “Life in Lakes.” The event took place in the school’s a classroom with the participation of one teacher and 20 students. The school administration was very attentive and helpful, which allowed Alper Yıldız to prepare the event hall quickly. At the beginning of the event, the 'When Do Scientists Dive Underwater? Blue Science Project' was introduced to the participating students. Following this, Dr. Emine Şükran Okudan, who delivered the presentation, shared how she started diving and described the scientific dives she conducted, aiming to inspire curiosity and interest in the underwater world and diving among the young participants. Information about the R5. MPA-ENGAGE reference project was provided, emphasizing its relevance to the event. The presentation commenced after this introduction.The presentation covers the following topics: the formation of lakes, types of lakes, organisms found in lakes and the food chains they form, factors affecting life in lakes, threats to lake ecosystems, and measures to protect life in lakes. Following the presentation, a question and answer session was held with students and teachers. During this session, participants asked questions about life and biodiversity in lakes. Dr. Emine Şükran Okudan provided detailed answers, clarifying the topics discussed in the presentation. After the presentation, students completed an evaluation survey.

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Ceşme Ulusoy Maritime Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School

On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Assistant Professor Teoman Naskali and Research Assistant Timoteos Onur Özçelik organized an event called “DIY Kits to Protect the Oceans”. In the event, which was held at Çeşme Ulusoy Maritime Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School with the participation of 11th-grade students, students designed a DIY kit by coding the ESP8266 microcontroller. This kit was to be a warning system for those working on ships on the high seas or oceans in case of a fall into the water in an imaginary scenario. For this, students turned on and off an RGB LED light on the ESP8266 microcontroller, produced a melody, detected the fall into the water using the conductivity of the water, and transmitted the warning to the center via wireless Mesh communication.

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Ekrem Başer Secondary School

On May, 21 - 2025, a visit was made to Ekrem Başer Secondary School in Denizli within the scope of the ScienceinBlue project. Ekrem Başer Secondary School is a state school located in Denizli province. There are a total of around 250 students and 22 teachers in the school. The event which was held between 13.30 and 14.30, carried out by Res. Asst. Dr. Alper YILDIZ from the project team, was completed with 57 students and 6 teachers. Participant students were 6th and 7th graders. First of all we introduced our project and its aims. Before the presentation, they were asked they could swim or whether they had ever seen a live fish before. Afterwards, the European Union projects that pioneered this issue, such as MPA-Engage, were mentioned. Detailed information was given about the methods of counting fish and why these counts were made. A question/answer event was held regarding the issues that children and teachers are curious about on this subject. At the end of the event, the participant students were asked to answer the survey we had prepared in advance. Both students and teachers were very pleased with the presentation and said they would like to do such events again.

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Selçuklu Primary School

“How Can We Help Scientists Protect Life Under Oceans and Lakes?” Event at Selçuklu Primary School

At Selçuklu Primary School, a special event titled “How Can We Help Scientists Protect Life Under Oceans and Lakes?” was held to help students understand the importance of underwater life and explore how they can support scientific efforts to protect it.During the event, students were introduced to the rich biodiversity found beneath oceans and lakes, the environmental threats facing these ecosystems, and the work scientists are doing to address these challenges. Tools and technologies used by researchers in underwater studies, such as observation equipment and data collection methods, were presented through engaging examples.Students also learned how they can contribute indirectly to scientific work by making simple observations in their own environment, asking questions, and acting responsibly toward nature. Topics like reducing water pollution, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems were explained in a clear and age-appropriate way.The event was attended by 95 students and 6 teachers, and helped students realize that scientific thinking is not limited to laboratories—it also applies to everyday life. This awareness marked an important step in guiding them to become environmentally conscious individuals.Selçuklu Primary School continues to organize meaningful activities like this to raise a generation of students who love nature, think critically, and act with responsibility.

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Erbakır Science High School

As part of the “Science in the Blue” project’s school visits in the Eagean Region of Turkey, an event was organized on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Erbakir Science High School, located in the Denizli province. The visit was conducted by project team members Alper Yıldız and Emine Şükran Okudan. During the event, Emine Şükran Okudan delivered a presentation titled “Invaders of the Sea” The event took place in the school’s conference hall with the participation of 2 teachers and 50 students. At the beginning of the event, the 'When Do Scientists Dive Underwater? Blue Science Project' was introduced to the participating students. Following this, Dr. Emine Şükran Okudan, who delivered the presentation, shared how she started diving and described the scientific dives she conducted, aiming to inspire curiosity and interest in the underwater world and diving among the young participants. Information about the R5. MPA-ENGAGE reference project was provided, emphasizing its relevance to the event. The presentation commenced after this introduction.The presentation covers the following topics: What are endemic and invasive species, why endemic species should be protected, pathways of invasive species introduction to the Mediterranean, examples of invasive species, interactions between invasive species and endemic species, and strategies for combating invasive species. Following the presentation, a question and answer session was held with students and teachers. During this session, participants asked questions about biodiversity and invaders species. Dr. Emine Şükran Okudan provided detailed answers, clarifying the topics discussed in the presentation. After the presentation, students completed an evaluation survey.

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Osmangazi Anatolian High School

As Part of the Science in Blue Project, We Were at Osmangazi Anatolian High School: Presentation and Exhibition on “Marine Citizen Science”

“Marine Citizen Science” Event at Osmangazi Anatolian High SchoolAt Osmangazi Anatolian High School, an event titled “Marine Citizen Science” was organized with the aim of encouraging contributions to marine ecosystems and active participation in scientific research. During this event, students were informed about how individuals can collect and share scientific data to support the protection and monitoring of the seas.Students learned how to take part in citizen science projects such as marine life observation, water quality measurement, and monitoring environmental changes. The importance of collecting valuable data to support scientists’ work on the health of marine ecosystems was emphasized.Additionally, awareness was raised about issues such as marine pollution, biodiversity, and sustainability. Students had the opportunity to contribute to scientific projects by making observations in their own environments.The “Marine Citizen Science” event was attended by 55 students and 8 teachers and helped increase young people’s environmental awareness and scientific curiosity. This experience contributed to the school’s vision of nurturing environmentally conscious and active individuals.

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Şehit Mehmet Çetin İmam Hatip Ortaokulu

Dr. Çağlar ÇAKIR, Assistant Professor at Akdeniz University's Department of Physical Geography, Faculty of Letters, successfully conducted a significant activity as part of the "Researchers in Schools" work package of the Science in Blue project. The second stop in the Aegean Region School Visits for Uşak was Şehit Mehmet Çetin Imam Hatip Secondary School, where Dr. ÇAKIR delivered a presentation titled "Are the Seas Getting Warmer?" on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The primary objective of this engagement was to raise awareness among students about the impacts of global warming and climate change on marine environments and to foster their interest in scientific pursuits.

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MEF International Izmir Schools

On Monday, June 2, Assistant Professor Teoman Naskali and Research Assistant Timoteos Onur Özçelik organized an event titled “How to Make a Robot Fish?”. In the event, which was held in two stages at Izmir International MEF School, in the first part, RoboFISH was introduced to 4th and 5th grade students, and how it can be programmed through the visual interface was shown. In addition, a practical training was given on how such a project can be realized simply with the help of a microcontroller. In the second part, a presentation on robots was made on RoboFISH for high school students. In this presentation, which basically emphasized what a robot is and its differences from a machine, information was also given on what an algorithm is and how it can be designed. The event was completed by answering the questions of students.

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Uşak High School

Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Çağlar ÇAKIR, within the scope of the "Researchers in Schools" work package of the Science in Blue project, conducted the "Unmixable Oceans" activity at Uşak High School on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 13:30, as part of the Aegean Region School Visits

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Mehmet Akif Ersoy Kindergarten

We Were at Tek Mehmet Akif Ersoy Kindergarten as Part of the Science in Blue Project: 'Underwater Writing and Communication

'On April 25, 2025, the Science in Blue project reached Tek Mehmet Akif Ersoy Kindergarten with an event focused on "Underwater Writing and Communication." The activity started with a fun and age-appropriate conference that introduced young learners to how divers communicate without speaking.Using colorful visuals and engaging explanations, instructors showed how divers use hand signals, underwater slates, waterproof pens, and special tablets to write and share messages below the surface. The children were fascinated to learn that it is possible to write underwater!After the presentation, the students explored a basic diving equipment exhibition, where they got to see and try out simple diving tools like masks, fins, and snorkels. This hands-on experience helped them understand how divers prepare and how communication works during real underwater missions.This event gave the children their first glimpse into the underwater world and inspired their curiosity about ocean science. Through the Science in Blue project, even the youngest students get the chance to connect with science in an exciting and memorable way.

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Aysel Selahattin Erkasap Social Sciences High School

“Career Paths in Scientific Diving” Event at Aysel Selahattin Erkasap Social Sciences High School

At Aysel Selahattin Erkasap Social Sciences High School, an inspiring event was held to explore how diving skills combine with scientific research and what career opportunities exist in this field. The event titled “Career Paths in Scientific Diving” was attended by 70 students and 5 teachers. Students learned about the role and importance of diving in various disciplines such as marine biology, underwater archaeology, environmental science, and oceanography.During the event, advanced technologies used in scientific diving, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and diving equipment were introduced. Students gained insights into how these technologies support underwater research and contribute to scientific discoveries. The collaboration between professional divers and researchers was also highlighted to explain how underwater missions are carried out safely and efficiently.Throughout the event, students understood that scientific diving is not only about exploration but also a multidisciplinary field involving science and engineering. Different careers in this area were presented, encouraging students to consider this innovative and exciting sector in their future career planning.The “Career Paths in Scientific Diving” event increased students’ interest in science, technology, and nature. This experience contributed to the school’s vision of nurturing knowledgeable and well-equipped future leaders.

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Teacher Mahmut Özgöbek Primary School

"How I Started Diving?" Event Brought the Wonders of the Ocean to Young Minds in Uşak!

As part of the “Researchers at Schools” work package of the Science in Blue project, a special event titled "How I Started Diving?" was held at Uşak Öğretmen Mahmut Özgöbek Primary School on May 30, 2025.Conducted by Dr. Çağlar ÇAKIR, the session aimed to introduce the fundamentals of scuba diving and marine science to 4th-grade students in an inspiring and engaging way. The presentation covered topics such as the SCUBA concept, the history of diving, the invention of the modern regulator by Jacques Cousteau and Emile Gagnan, marine life, and the CMAS training levels under the Turkish Underwater Sports Federation—all tailored to the students' age level.Connections between the Science in Blue project and its reference projects, such as GreenBubble, MPA-Engage, and Robopisces, were explained to students, aiming to foster European-level marine literacy awareness among children. The event, which concluded with a question-and-answer session following the presentation, proved to be a memorable activity for the children.The event not only educated but also sparked curiosity in the colorful and mysterious world beneath the waves.

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Fethiye Anatolian High School

As part of the European Union Project titled “Science in Blue” (Mavide Bilim), an event on the theme of “Mediterranean Underwater Cultural Heritage” was held on April 25, 2025, at Fethiye Anatolian High School. The event was conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan ÖNİZ, Head of the Department of Conservation and Restoration at Akdeniz University Faculty of Fine Arts, and Dr. Ceyda ÖZTOSUN, one of the researchers of the Underwater Research Project on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast. The event lasted from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM and was attended by approximately 100 students and 4 teachers.The presentations were delivered in an encouraging and motivational tone, considering that the students are in a stressful and anxious phase of preparing for university entrance exams. Within this framework, emphasis was placed on how underwater research involves a wide range of disciplines and how students, by adopting an interdisciplinary perspective beyond standardized career paths, can become distinguished individuals in Turkey and globally. The question-and-answer session held between the educators and the students progressed in parallel with the presentation to maintain student engagement.At the end of the event, students were gifted books on underwater archaeology and specially designed keychains made for the project.Established in 2005, Fethiye Anatolian High School continues its educational activities with 38 teachers and approximately 560 students, with one of its main objectives being to raise young individuals who protect Turkey’s cultural values.

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Fuatpaşa Secondary School

“How Deep Are the Oceans?” Event at Fuat Paşa Middle School

At Fuat Paşa Middle School, an inspiring event was held focusing on the depths of the oceans and their scientific significance. In this event titled “How Deep Are the Oceans?”, students learned detailed information about the structure, depths, and underwater ecosystems of the oceans.During the event, the different layers of the oceans, the deepest points, and the technologies used in underwater research were introduced. Students discovered how underwater robots, sonar devices, and other scientific tools help explore the ocean depths. The roles of scientists and divers involved in these explorations were also explained.Throughout the event, students understood that the oceans are not just vast bodies of water but complex and vibrant ecosystems, a world waiting to be explored. They also gained knowledge about scientific studies and careers in this field.The “How Deep Are the Oceans?” event was attended by 60 students and 7 teachers and increased students’ interest in nature, science, and exploration. This experience contributed to the school’s vision of providing knowledge-based and curiosity-driven education.

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