Central Anatolia Region

Sumer Science High School

As part of the “Science in the Blue” project’s school visits in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey, an event was organized on October 20, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Kayseri Sümer Science High School, located in the Kayseri 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 a classroom with the participation of one teacher and 25 students. The school administration was very attentive and helpful, which allowed Alper Yıldız to prepare the event hall quickly.Kayseri Sümer Science High School is a long-established educational institution that integrates academic excellence with cultural, social, and artistic development. Drawing inspiration from the values and aspirations of the nation, the school aims to cultivate individuals who are a source of pride, achieve high academic success, and are equipped to meet the demands of contemporary society. In line with the general and specific objectives of the Turkish national education system, the institution prepares its students to respect universal law, democracy, and human rights, and to approach their endeavors with a commitment to excellence. Serving 475 students with 37 teachers, the school offers full-day education across 18 classrooms, a workshop, a sports hall, chemistry and biology laboratories, an information technology classroom, a cafeteria, a health office, and a well-stocked library containing 7,595 volumes. Kayseri Sümer Science High School is dedicated to nurturing individuals who are knowledgeable, ethically grounded, and self-confident.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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Mehmet Sepici 60. Yıl Cumhuriyet Primary School

On October 20, 2025, a visit was made to Mehmet Sepici 60th Year Cumhuriyet Primary School in Kayseri as part of the ScienceinBlue project. The school has 33 classrooms, 41 teachers, and 683 students. 20, 2 th grade students and 2 teachers participated in the event, which took place from 13:30 to 14:30. The event was led by Research Assistant Dr. Alper Yıldız from the project team. We first introduced our project and its objectives. We then discussed European Union projects, such as MPA-Engage, that have pioneered this field. Detailed information was provided on fish counting methods and the reasons for these counts. Despite Kayseri being a landlocked city, the students showed great interest in the topic and asked many questions. Both students and teachers were very pleased with the presentation and expressed their desire to host similar events again.

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Koca Sinan 75. Years Cumhuriyet Anatolian High School

As part of the “Science in the Blue” project’s school visits in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey, an event was organized on October 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Kocasinan 75th Year Republic Anatolian High School, located in the Kayseri 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. Kocasinan 75th Year Republic Anatolian High School, located in the Kocasinan district of Kayseri, is a well-established educational institution. The school strives to respond to the expectations of an evolving and changing world while maintaining a commitment to quality education, positioning itself as a respected and preferred institution. Guided by the principles and reforms of Atatürk, the school aims to cultivate students who uphold both material and moral values, possess self-confidence, have access to knowledge, and contribute positively to society. Serving 1,038 students with 60 teachers across 25 classrooms, the institution offers English as the primary foreign language and German as the secondary. Its modern educational facilities include a conference hall, a sports hall, a chemistry laboratory, and a well-stocked library with approximately 5,000 volumes. Operating under both standard and single shift teaching systems, Kocasinan 75th Year Republic Anatolian High School prepares its students to become well-rounded individuals, equipped academically and socially for the future.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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Yunus Emre Anatolian Imam Hatip High School

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Sincan Anatolian Imam Hatip High School

On Tuesday, September 29, 2025, Assistant Professor Teoman Naskali and Research Assistant Timoteos Onur Özçelik held an event titled “DIY Kits for Protecting the Oceans.” With the participation of students from Sincan Anadolu Imam Hatip High School and Middle School, the students designed a DIY kit by coding the ESP8266 microcontroller. This kit would serve as a warning system to detect crew members falling into the water and alert the crew to take action, particularly for ships operating in high-risk open seas or oceans. To achieve this, the students gradually turned an RGB LED light on and off, produced a melody, detected falling into water using its conductivity, and transmitted the warning to the center via wireless Mesh communication on the ESP8266 microcontroller. 

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Çankırı Atatürk Secondary School

“Robots Assisting Archaeologists” Event at Mevlana Primary School within the EU Project “Science in Blue”At Mevlana Primary School, as part of the EU project “Science in Blue,” a special event titled “Robots Assisting Archaeologists” was organized to introduce students to archaeology and robotic technologies. The activity aimed to raise awareness about how robots can support archaeologists in excavation sites and the role of technology in collecting scientific data.The presentations were delivered by Dr. Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ebru Öksüz from the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center. Students learned about the applications of robotic systems in archaeological work, how robots can reach places that humans cannot, and how they assist in data collection. They also had the opportunity to explore robotic devices, sensors, and sampling equipment up close.During the event, the importance of collaboration between scientists, engineers, and robotics experts in archaeological research was emphasized. Inspiring information was shared for students interested in pursuing careers in archaeology, engineering, and robotic technologies.The “Robots Assisting Archaeologists” event increased students’ scientific awareness and helped them understand how they can contribute to archaeological studies using technology. It encouraged students to become conscious individuals who support the preservation of cultural heritage in the future.

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Hüyük Mevlana Primary School

“How Deep Can I Dive?” Event at Mevlana Primary School as Part of the EU-Funded “Science in Blue” ProjectAt Mevlana Primary School, a special event on “How Deep Can I Dive?” was held as part of the EU-funded “Science in Blue” project, aimed at raising students’ awareness about diving, underwater ecosystems, and how humans can safely explore ocean depths. During the event, students learned how individuals can contribute to marine research and the role of diving in collecting scientific data.The presentations were delivered by Dr. Lecturer Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ebru Öksüz from the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center. The sessions introduced students to the concept of diving science, explaining how divers can observe marine life, monitor pollution, and collect important data that scientists alone cannot obtain. The event particularly emphasized how diving contributes to citizen science; students saw examples of divers documenting underwater conditions, recording marine species, and sharing data such as water temperature and visibility to support scientific research. They also had the opportunity to explore diving equipment, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and tanks.Throughout the event, the importance of collaboration between scientists, engineers, and volunteer divers in protecting ocean ecosystems was highlighted. Inspirational information about marine biology, environmental engineering, and underwater technologies was shared for students interested in future careers in these fields.The “How Deep Can I Dive?” event helped Mevlana Primary School students increase their environmental awareness and learn how they can contribute to science through diving, encouraging them to become informed advocates for ocean and marine ecosystem conservation in the future.

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Hüyük Imam Hatip Secondary School

“How Deep Are the Oceans?” Event at Hüyük Imam Hatip Secondary School as Part of the EU-Funded “Science in Blue” ProjectAt Hüyük Imam Hatip Secondary School, a special event on “How Deep Are the Oceans?” was held as part of the EU-funded “Science in Blue” project, aimed at raising students’ awareness of ocean depths and underwater ecosystems. During the event, students learned how individuals can contribute to marine research and the role of divers in collecting scientific data.The presentations were delivered by Dr. Lecturer Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ebru Öksüz from the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center. The sessions introduced the concept of ocean science, explaining how volunteers and divers can observe marine life, monitor pollution, and collect data that scientists alone cannot easily obtain. The event particularly emphasized the contributions of diving to citizen science; students saw examples of how divers document underwater conditions, record marine species, and share data such as water temperature and visibility to support research. They also had the opportunity to explore diving equipment, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and tanks.Throughout the event, the importance of collaboration between scientists, engineers, and volunteer divers in protecting ocean ecosystems was highlighted. Inspirational information about marine biology, environmental engineering, and underwater technologies was shared for students interested in pursuing careers in these fields.The “How Deep Are the Oceans?” event helped Hüyük Imam Hatip Secondary School students increase their environmental awareness and learn how they can contribute to science through diving, encouraging them to become informed advocates for ocean conservation in the future.

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Nefise Sultan Girls' Technical and Vocational High School

Treasures of the Sea came to life in Karaman!On 27 October 2025, at Nefise Sultan Girls’ Vocational & Technical Anatolian High School, the Science in Blue Researchers at Schools activity titled “Treasures of the Sea” was delivered. Guided by Dr Çağlar ÇAKIR and underwater archaeologist Günay DÖNMEZ (Akdeniz University), she/he presented an interactive exploration of the oceans, seas and underwater cultural heritage.The day began at 08:30 with a brief meeting with the school leadership and representatives of the Karaman Provincial Directorate of National Education (Innovation & EdTech), where she/he outlined project goals, results to date and next steps. At 09:00, the hall filled and she/he engaged Year 9 and Year 5 students through Q&A supported by photos and videos.With 136 students and 10 teachers participating, she/he discussed the physical/chemical characteristics of the oceans, the scope and value of underwater cultural heritage, and underwater excavations along Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast. Curiosity shaped the dialogue—touching on career paths and the skills needed to pursue science underwater.She/He wrapped up with evaluation questionnaires, donated a set of underwater cultural heritage books to the school library, and closed the day with a group photo. As in the Marmara, Southeastern Anatolia, Mediterranean and Aegean stops, the aim remains clear: to empower young people with ocean literacy and cultural heritage awareness, and to spark future science beneath the waves.

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Başakşehir Şehit Hamza Çetin Anatolian High School

Science in Blue in Karaman: “Is it getting warmer?” Prompted Students to Reflect on the Future of the OceansThe second event in Karaman under When Scientists Go Under the Water: Science in Blue took place at Başakşehir Şehit Hamza Çetin Anatolian High School on Monday, 27 October 2025, at 11:00. Constructed in 2009 and opened in 2010, the school provides a robust learning environment with 32 classrooms, physics–chemistry–biology laboratories, a library, archive, a guidance unit and administrative offices. The tree-lined campus also features volleyball, basketball and football courts and offers four-year general secondary education.Prior to the activity, a briefing meeting was held with Headteacher Ali Koçak, Deputy Head Hasan Serdar Macit, Geography Teacher (project partner) Lütfü Yalçıntaş, English Teacher Mehmet Erkaya, Physics Teacher Özgür Özel, Hamza Sağcan from the Innovation and Educational Technologies Branch of the Provincial Directorate of National Education, and Betül Karabudak from the STEM Branch. The meeting outlined the project’s aims, objectives and scope, introduced the EU-funded reference projects, and concluded with a donation of underwater cultural heritage books to the school library.The auditorium session, delivered by Dr Çağlar Çakır and titled “Is it getting warmer?”, opened with Dr Çakır and Günay Dönmez sharing their personal diving origin stories to inspire students towards diving and underwater science. The project’s core purpose—to encourage young people to become the scientists of the future—was emphasised, followed by accessible explanations of the EU-funded initiatives referenced by Science in Blue and the Blue Economy concept. The talk centred on the progressive warming of the oceans and seas: students viewed long-term changes in ocean surface temperatures through graphs, and discussed drivers, evidence and consequences, including current impacts and future challenges.The programme continued with a dynamic Q&A, during which students explored global warming and climate change, ocean science, the team’s underwater research, and diving. For impact evaluation, questionnaires were distributed. The day concluded with a group photograph featuring the school leadership, representatives of the Provincial Directorate of National Education and students. In total, 75 Year-9 students and 7 teachers participated.

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Yunus Emre Secondary School

üyük Yunus Emre Primary School “How I Started Diving” Presentation and ActivityAt Hüyük Yunus Emre Primary School, a comprehensive presentation and practical activity on “How I Started Diving” was organized. Teachers also participated, sharing information with students about basic diving principles, safe diving practices, and the use of essential equipment.Students were introduced to simple techniques for starting diving and the use of basic diving gear. The functions and proper use of diving suits, masks, fins, and snorkels were explained in detail. In addition, students learned about potential challenges they might encounter while diving and the precautions they could take in such situations.The combination of presentation and hands-on demonstrations allowed students to reinforce their theoretical knowledge with practical experience and increased their interest in diving. The activity encouraged students to approach the underwater world safely and consciously while fostering curiosity and a spirit of exploration.

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Kardelen College

Kardelen College “Career Paths in Scientific Diving” Presentation and ActivityAt Kardelen College, a comprehensive presentation and activity on “Career Paths in Scientific Diving” was organized. Students and teachers participated in the event, receiving detailed information about the fundamental principles of scientific diving, methods used in underwater research, and potential career paths in the field.During the presentation, students learned about the necessary education, certifications, career options, and university programs related to diving and underwater sciences. They also gained awareness of participating in research projects, teamwork, safe diving practices, and potential challenges that may arise during dives. Through the presentation and practical examples, students had the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge, observing the requirements of a professional approach to the underwater environment.The activity aimed to increase students’ interest in scientific diving and underwater research, foster curiosity and exploration, and support conscious planning for their future careers. Additionally, it contributed to the development of students’ problem-solving, planning, and research skills, while promoting awareness, responsibility, and sensitivity toward marine and underwater sciences.

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Ülkü Primary School

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Cemalettin Sarar Secondary School

“Ocean Citizen Science” Event at Cemalettin Sarar Middle SchoolAt Cemalettin Sarar Middle School in Eskişehir, a special event was held to raise students’ awareness about protecting the oceans and contributing to scientific research. Under the theme “Ocean Citizen Science”, students learned how individuals can play an active role in conserving marine ecosystems and how divers contribute to this process.The presentations introduced the concept of citizen science and explained how volunteers can help document marine biodiversity and pollution. Students discovered that data collected by divers and nature observers often provides scientists with valuable information that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.A particular focus was placed on the role of diving in citizen science. Examples showed how divers record plastic pollution, document coral and fish species, and share information such as water temperature and visibility to support scientific studies. Students also had the chance to explore diving equipment such as masks, fins, wetsuits, and air tanks, learning how these tools help divers stay safe underwater while conducting observations.Throughout the event, the importance of collaboration between scientists, engineers, and volunteer divers in protecting marine ecosystems was highlighted. Students also received inspiring insights into future careers in marine biology, environmental engineering, and underwater technologies.The “Ocean Citizen Science” event not only increased students’ environmental awareness but also showed them how diving can be a gateway to meaningful scientific contributions. This special day encouraged Cemalettin Sarar Middle School students to become active and responsible participants in safeguarding the future of our oceans.

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Akşemseddin Science and Art Center Workshop Hall

“Working Quickly and Safely Underwater” Presentation and Event at Ovacık Şehit Bayram Aksoy Secondary School and Primary SchoolAt Ovacık Şehit Bayram Aksoy Secondary School and Primary School, a special event on “Working Quickly and Safely Underwater” was held as part of the EU project “Science in Blue.” The activity aimed to introduce students to safe and efficient underwater practices and the proper use of diving equipment.The presentations were delivered by Dr. Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ebru Öksüz from the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center. Students learned about safe movement during dives, emergency procedures, and techniques for working efficiently underwater.The event was also attended by teachers and Dilber Acar from the Ministry of National Education. Students had the opportunity to explore and try diving helmets, fins, and other equipment at the exhibition.The event helped raise students’ awareness of underwater safety and diving techniques and contributed to their scientific learning. Participants were encouraged to become informed individuals who can safely contribute to underwater research in the future.

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Dumlupınar Primary School

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TOBB Science High School

Çankırı TOBB Science High School “Underwater Writing and Communication” Presentation and ActivityAt Çankırı TOBB Science High School, a comprehensive presentation and activity were held on the topic of “Underwater Writing and Communication.” Teachers also attended the event and participated alongside students in learning about both the theoretical and practical aspects of underwater communication.During the activity, students were provided with detailed information on underwater writing methods and communication techniques. The challenges of sharing information in submerged environments, the importance of effective communication, and strategies for different underwater conditions were emphasized. The presentation also covered safe movement underwater, measures to take in emergency situations, and the proper use of diving equipment. Students had the opportunity to learn about solutions to potential communication problems they might encounter underwater.Following the presentation, students explored a diving equipment exhibition, where they saw special housings designed for using tablets underwater and the styluses that allow writing on them. They also examined diving helmets, fins, masks, and other equipment, gaining insight into their functions and applications. This hands-on experience allowed students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical use and deepen their understanding of underwater communication.The activity aimed to raise students’ awareness of underwater writing and communication, enhance their practical skills, and encourage them to contribute safely and consciously to future marine research and exploration. Additionally, it supported the development of their scientific thinking, increased environmental awareness, and fostered a stronger interest in underwater technologies.

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Niğde Science High School

Niğde Science High School “How Can Scientists Support the Protection of Life Under Oceans and Lakes?” Presentation and ActivityAt Niğde Science High School, a presentation and activity were held on the topic “How Can Scientists Support the Protection of Life Under Oceans and Lakes?” Teachers also attended the event.During the activity, students learned in detail about the importance of underwater ecosystems and the role of scientists in protecting them. The presentation also covered diving techniques, safe underwater practices, and the proper use of diving equipment. Students were informed about possible emergency situations and measures to take, as well as effective methods for working efficiently underwater.Following the presentation, students had the opportunity to explore a diving equipment exhibition, where they could examine and try out diving helmets, fins, masks, and other gear. This hands-on experience allowed students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application and gain familiarity with diving equipment.The event aimed to raise students’ awareness of underwater conservation, help them better understand diving and research methods, and encourage them to contribute safely and consciously to future underwater studies. It also supported the development of their environmental awareness and scientific thinking skills.

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Vali Necati Çetinkaya Secondary School

“Working Quickly and Safely Underwater” Event at Vali Necati Çetinkaya Secondary School within the EU Project “Science in Blue”At Vali Necati Çetinkaya Secondary School, as part of the EU project “Science in Blue”, a special event titled “Working Quickly and Safely Underwater” was organized to help students explore diving techniques and underwater operations focused on speed and safety. The activity aimed to raise awareness about professional diving practices, equipment use, and effective data collection underwater.The presentations were delivered by Dr. Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ebru Öksüz from the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center. Students learned about methods for enhancing safety during dives, emergency management, and the importance of moving efficiently in underwater research. They also had the opportunity to examine and try diving equipment such as masks, fins, wetsuits, and air tanks.During the event, the importance of collaboration between scientists, engineers, and diving experts in underwater research was emphasized. Inspiring information was shared for students interested in pursuing careers in diving science, underwater technologies, and environmental protection.The “Working Quickly and Safely Underwater” event increased students’ scientific awareness and taught them how to contribute to underwater research safely; students were encouraged to become conscious individuals who will support the preservation of marine ecosystems in the future.

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Zübeyde Hanım Secondary School

On October 27, 2025, an educational event was held at Karaman Zübeyde Hanım Middle School within the scope of the “Science in Blue” Project.The event, aimed at connecting scientists with students across Turkey, was conducted between 14:30 and 16:45 by the project team members Çağlar Çakır and Günay Dönmez, with the participation of 43 students and 8 teachers. The participating students were from 5th and 6th grades.At the beginning of the event, the objectives and scope of the project were introduced. Subsequently, leading European Union initiatives in this field—such as MPA-Engage—were discussed. The session started with an assessment of participants’ awareness regarding oceans, seas, and underwater cultural heritage. Afterwards, the researchers organizing the event shared their personal experiences in diving, aiming to inspire students to engage in future diving activities and underwater scientific research.The presentation continued with discussions on the concepts of oceans and seas, emphasizing their differences and key characteristics. The session titled “Unmixing Oceans” attracted significant attention from both the school administration and students. This presentation explored in detail topics such as the major oceans of the world, whether these bodies of water actually mix, and the scientific explanations (or lack thereof) behind this phenomenon.Finally, the importance of oceans and seas and strategies for their preservation were presented to the participants. During the Q&A session, students had the opportunity to ask questions about the underwater world. At the conclusion of the event, pre-prepared gifts were distributed to both students and teachers.Throughout the presentations, the experts emphasized that seas are not merely bodies of water, but also constitute economic assets, cultural heritage, and scientific laboratories. The main goal was to enhance students’ awareness of blue economy, underwater cultural heritage, innovative diving technologies, and ocean literacy.In addition, students were introduced to Turkey’s rich underwater cultural heritage, including archaeological shipwrecks and ongoing excavations on the seabed. The significance of underwater archaeology was highlighted not only in terms of historical research but also as a vital component in the protection of cultural heritage.As a result of the event, it is expected that students at Karaman Zübeyde Hanım Middle School have gained greater awareness of oceans, seas, and underwater cultural heritage, developed increased curiosity toward underwater environments and scientific exploration, and improved their understanding of ocean and marine sustainability.

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