Black Sea Region

Kaptan Ahmet Fatoğlu Maritime Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School

Süha Güven Tourism Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School

On Monday, 15 December 2025, at 15:00, a presentation focusing on scientific diving and academic career pathways was held at Akçakoca Süha Güven Tourism Vocational and Technical High School with the participation of Pınar Uluer and Eda Bahar from Galatasaray University. The session was attended by 50 high school students and 5 teachers.As part of the event, students were first introduced to the Science in Blue Project, including its objectives and the activities implemented to date. The presentation addressed underwater research and the concept of the blue economy, highlighting how these fields contribute to national development.The session continued with an overview of the history of diving, basic equipment used by divers, fundamental principles of scientific diving, research methods applied in underwater studies, the use of robots in underwater research, and potential career opportunities in these fields. The event aimed to increase students’ interest in underwater sciences and to support their future career planning by linking these topics with STEAM disciplines.During the discussion, students actively engaged with the researchers, asking questions about the physical and dynamic principles of scientific diving, practical applications of underwater robotics, and the educational pathways available for pursuing careers in related fields.

Event Photos

Mustafa Erdin Secondary School

On 18 December 2025, a scientific and educational event was held at Samsun/Bafra Mustafa Erdin Secondary School within the scope of the Mavide Science Project. The event was organized with the aim of increasing students’ awareness of scientific diving in the field of maritime studies, supporting applied learning processes, and strengthening interdisciplinary interaction.The event, which aimed to bring scientists together with students from different regions of Türkiye, was conducted between 14:30 and 16:00 by project team members Çağlar Çakır and Günay Dönmez, and was completed with the participation of 36 students and 6 teachers. The participating students were from the 4th and 5th grades. The event began with an introduction to the project and its objectives, followed by information on pioneering European Union projects in this field, such as MPA-Engage.The activity started with an assessment of participants’ awareness of oceans, seas, and underwater cultural heritage. Subsequently, the researchers who organized the event shared their personal experiences of how they started diving, aiming to encourage students to engage in diving activities and participate in underwater scientific studies in the future.The presentation began by explaining the approximately 3,000-year history of human diving activities, emphasizing how ancient and historically rooted diving practices are and how they were carried out in the past. This was followed by an overview of what SCUBA is, a brief history of SCUBA diving, and an introduction to the pioneers of SCUBA diving worldwide. The pathway students need to follow in order to begin diving was clearly explained.In the subsequent sections of the presentation, the scientific aspects of diving activities and the related career opportunities were discussed, helping to raise students’ awareness in this field. The presentation titled “How I Started Diving / Career Paths in Scientific Diving” was delivered with strong interest from both the school administration and the students of Samsun/Bafra Mustafa Erdin Secondary School.In the final part of the presentation, the importance of oceans and seas, along with strategies for their protection, was shared with the participants. During the question-and-answer session, students had the opportunity to ask questions about the underwater world. At the end of the event, previously prepared gifts were distributed to the students and teachers.Throughout the presentations, the experts emphasized that seas are not merely bodies of water, but also represent economic value, cultural heritage, and scientific laboratories. In this context, the event aimed to raise awareness among students about concepts such as the blue economy, underwater cultural heritage, innovative diving technologies, and ocean literacy.In addition, Türkiye’s rich underwater cultural heritage, archaeological shipwrecks, and underwater excavation studies conducted on the seabed were introduced to the students. The importance of underwater archaeology was highlighted not only in terms of historical research but also with regard to the protection of cultural heritage.As a result of the event, it is expected that students at Samsun/Bafra Mustafa Erdin Secondary School have gained increased awareness of oceans, seas, underwater cultural heritage, the history of underwater diving, and career paths in scientific diving; that their curiosity about underwater environments and scientific exploration has grown; and that their awareness of the sustainability of oceans and seas has been strengthened.

Event Photos

Mecitözü Regional Boarding Secondary School

Within the framework of the Science in Blue European Union Project, which has been carried out for the past two years through the collaboration of Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students came together through Science in Blue activities.As part of the project, a presentation titled “Writing and Communication Underwater” was delivered to students of Mecitözü Boarding Secondary School (YİBO) by Ufuk Faruk Vardar, a professional diver at the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center.During the presentation, students learned how divers and researchers communicate in underwater environments where verbal communication is not possible. Underwater writing slates, hand signals, light signals, and team communication methods were explained through practical examples. The importance of clear and effective communication in underwater work was emphasized, particularly in terms of safety and teamwork.Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to see how underwater communication techniques are used in various fields, ranging from scientific research to underwater archaeology. The engaging and educational approach, combined with active student participation, increased students’ curiosity about the underwater world and diving activities.We would like to thank the school administration and dedicated teachers for their hospitality and valuable support in making this educational program possible, and we wish the participating students a successful educational journey filled with curiosity and learning.

Event Photos

Nedime Serap Ulusoy Maritime Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School

On 19 December 2025, an activity was held in Samsun as part of the Science in Blue Project with students from Nedime Serap Ulusoy Maritime Vocational and Technical High School. The event was led by project team members Çağlar Çakır and Günay Dönmez and took place between 13:30 and 14:45. A total of 38 ninth- and tenth-grade students and 6 teachers participated.The session began with an introduction to the Science in Blue Project—what it is, why it exists, and what has been done so far. Examples from similar European initiatives, such as MPA-ENGAGE, were briefly shared. Students’ existing ideas and awareness about oceans, seas, and the underwater world were discussed at the start.The researchers then shared how they first became involved in diving and underwater research, using their personal experiences to encourage students to think about future involvement in scientific diving and underwater studies. This led into an open discussion on the concepts of oceans and seas, focusing on their differences and basic characteristics in a clear and accessible way.The main part of the event featured a presentation titled “Non-Mixing Oceans.” Topics included the world’s major oceans, whether oceans actually mix with each other, and the scientific explanations behind this idea (or the lack of it). The presentation attracted strong interest from both students and teachers.In the final part of the session, the importance of oceans and seas and why they need protection were discussed, along with what can be done to support their sustainability. During the question-and-answer session, students asked questions about the underwater world and marine science. At the end of the event, small prepared gifts were distributed to both students and teachers.Throughout the activity, the researchers emphasized that seas and oceans are not just bodies of water, but also scientific research spaces, cultural heritage sites, and economic resources. The session aimed to raise awareness of topics such as the blue economy, underwater cultural heritage, diving technologies, and ocean literacy. Turkey’s rich underwater archaeological heritage, shipwrecks, and seabed research were also shared to highlight the importance of protecting underwater cultural assets.By the end of the event, students showed increased curiosity about oceans, seas, and underwater exploration, as well as greater awareness of sustainability and scientific discovery related to marine environments.

Event Photos

İsmet Pasha Secondary School

Project researchers Pınar Uluer and Eda Bahar organized a half-day workshop on 15 December 2025 at İsmetpaşa Secondary School in Düzce city center, aiming to introduce students to the fundamentals of robotics and visual programming. The workshop featured hands-on activities designed to foster scientific curiosity and develop problem-solving skills.A total of 15 students aged 10–12 participated in the workshop, including 3 girls and 12 boys. The educational content was structured around two main sections, each focusing on different aspects of STEAM awareness.In the first section, students were introduced to the Science in Blue project, its objectives, and the activities implemented to date. The session addressed underwater research and the concept of the blue economy, highlighting their contributions to national development. The second section focused on robotic technologies, covering the basic differences between machines and robots, as well as key components such as robot bodies, sensors, microcontrollers, and motors.In the practical part of the workshop, the PaperFISH robotic fish was introduced. Using a simple web-based programming interface, researchers demonstrated how the robot could be programmed with basic coding concepts. All students had the opportunity to design their own algorithms and operate the robot, enabling it to move and perform specific actions.Throughout the activity, students actively engaged with the researchers, asking questions about underwater robotic applications, program design, and the integration of new sensors for autonomous movement. The level of participation and curiosity demonstrated that the workshop successfully achieved its educational and awareness-raising objectives.

Event Photos

19 May High School

Within the framework of the Researchers in Schools work package of the Science in Blue project, supported under the European Union Marie Curie call, the Black Sea Region School Visits continued with a visit to Samsun / İlkadım 19 Mayıs High School. During the event titled “Is the Sea Getting Warmer?”, held on 19 December 2025, students were invited through the presentation delivered by Dr. Çağlar ÇAKIR to an up-to-date and compelling scientific journey exploring the strong link between climate change and the seas.The event began by emphasizing the project’s core objective of encouraging young people to engage in underwater science, and it proceeded within the perspective of the blue economy. As part of the programme, reference projects such as GreenBubbles, MPA-ENGAGE, and ROBOPISCES were introduced, and their relevance to the event theme was presented. Subsequently, the concepts of global warming and climate change their causes, their impacts on ocean and sea surface temperatures, the consequences of these impacts, and possible mitigation and adaptation measures were conveyed to the students through a visually supported presentation. Throughout the event, students’ interest remained notably high, and the topic was further explored through the questions raised during the Q&A session. The event was successfully concluded following the Q&A session.

Event Photos

Akoluk Primary School

As part of the “Science in Blue” project’s school visits in the Black Sea Region, an activity was held on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at 13:30 at Akoluk Primary School in Trabzon. The event was carried out by project team members Alper Yıldız and Emine Şükran Okudan.During the event, Emine Şükran Okudan delivered a presentation titled “Marine Invasive Species.” The activity took place in the conference hall with the participation of three teachers and 56 students. Thanks to the supportive approach of the school administration, the event was organized smoothly and the venue was prepared in a short time.At the beginning of the program, students were introduced to the Science in Blue Project under the title “When Do Scientists Dive Underwater?”. The speaker then shared her journey into scientific diving and her field experiences, aiming to spark students’ curiosity about the underwater world. Reference was also made to the R5. MPA-ENGAGE project.The presentation covered topics such as endemic and invasive species, the impacts of invasive species on marine ecosystems, their pathways of spread into the Mediterranean, and approaches to managing invasive species. The content was delivered using age-appropriate language and visual materials.Following the presentation, a question-and-answer session was held, during which students asked questions about biodiversity and invasive species. The questions were answered in an explanatory manner. At the end of the activity, students completed an evaluation questionnaire. The level of engagement demonstrated that the event successfully met its awareness-raising objectives.

Event Photos

Bartın Science and Art Center

Within the framework of the “Science in Blue” European Union Project, which has been carried out for the past two years by Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center, students from the Eastern Anatolia Region came together with Science in Blue activities. The presentations delivered by Lecturer Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University and Ufuk Faruk Vardar, a professional diver at the Boğaziçi Underwater Research Center, were followed with great interest by the students of Şehit Emin Güner Imam Hatip Anatolian High School.During the event, students learned about the wide range of career opportunities available in underwater fields, from archaeological research conducted in Turkey’s waters to industrial operations and tourism-related activities. They gained insight into potential career pathways and the types of education required to pursue these professions. Following the presentations, students had the opportunity to examine diving equipment displayed at an exhibition set up after the session. The idea of diving as a possible career path generated significant interest among the students, and some expressed their desire to become divers during the event.We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the school principal and the dedicated teachers for their warm hospitality and valuable support in making this educational program possible. We also wish the participating students a successful and fulfilling educational journey.

Yeşiltepe Primary School

On 16.12.2025, a visit was made to Yeşiltepe Primary School in Trabzon within the scope of the ScienceinBlue project Yeşiltepe Primary School is a state school located in Trabzon province. There are a total of 980 students and 51 teachers in the school. The event which was held between 9.30 and 10.30, carried out by Res. Asst. Dr. Alper YILDIZ from the project team, was completed with 35 students and 4 teachers. Participant students were 4th  graders. First of all we introduced our project and its aims. 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. Both students and teachers were very pleased with the presentation and said they would like to do such events again.

Event Photos

Gazi Anatolian High School

As part of the “Science in Blue” project’s school visits in the Black Sea Region, an activity was held on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at 09:30, at Gazi Anatolian High School located in the Ortahisar district of Trabzon. The visit was carried out by project team members Alper Yıldız and Emine Şükran Okudan.The event was smoothly organized thanks to the supportive and facilitating approach of the school administration. The activity space was prepared in a short time, and the session was conducted in a classroom setting with the participation of approximately 30 students, accompanied by a teacher.At the beginning of the program, the Science in Blue Project was introduced to the students under the title “When Do Scientists Dive Underwater?”. Following this introduction, Dr. Emine Şükran Okudan shared how she became involved in scientific diving and her professional experiences, aiming to spark students’ interest in the underwater world and scientific research. During this section, reference was also made to the R5. MPA-ENGAGE project, highlighting its connection to the activity.The main part of the presentation focused on the theme “Life in Lakes.” The natural characteristics of lakes, how life develops in these environments, and the impacts of human activities on lake ecosystems were presented in general terms. The presentation progressed with examples and visual materials to maintain students’ engagement.Following the presentation, a question-and-answer session was held with the active participation of both students and the teacher. During this session, students raised questions related to life in lakes, environmental threats, and nature conservation. These questions were answered in an explanatory manner within the framework of the topics covered in the presentation.At the end of the activity, students completed an evaluation questionnaire and shared their feedback on the session. The level of interest and interaction demonstrated by the students indicated that the activity successfully achieved its objectives of raising awareness and fostering scientific curiosity.

Event Photos

Turgut Işık Health Vocational Sports High School

Within the framework of the Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim) European Union Project, which has been carried out for the past two years through the collaboration of Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students came together at Science in Blue events.As part of the project, a presentation titled “Fast and Safe Working Underwater” was delivered to students of Turgut Işık Vocational High School of Health and Sports by Prof. Dr. Salih Murat Egi from Galatasaray University. Bahar Egi from the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center also participated in the event.During the presentation, students had the opportunity to learn about the planning and safety procedures governing scientific, technical, and industrial work carried out in underwater environments. The critical importance of efficient time management, proper equipment selection, team communication, and risk management in underwater operations was explained through practical examples. It was emphasized that fast yet safe working requires not only technical knowledge but also disciplined teamwork.Throughout the event, students were introduced to specialized equipment, diving systems, and safety gear used in professional underwater operations. The presentation progressed in an interactive manner with active student participation, and the professional dimensions of underwater work proved particularly engaging for students receiving education in health and sports fields.This educational activity contributed to raising students’ awareness of underwater sciences, technology, and safe working culture, while also helping them explore different career opportunities. The interest and curiosity shown by the students throughout the presentation clearly demonstrated that the event successfully achieved its objectives.

Event Photos

30 August Imam Hatip Secondary School

As part of the Science in Blue project supported under the EU Marie Curie call, the E7 – Treasures of the Sea event was delivered within the Researchers in Schools work package on 18 December 2025 at 10:00, at 30 Ağustos İmam Hatip Middle School in İlkadım, Samsun. Meeting with 6th-grade students, the event aimed to encourage future engagement in underwater science, spark curiosity about the underwater world, and strengthen awareness of the blue economy. The session, presented by Dr. Çağlar ÇAKIR, covered: project goals and reference projects, the blue economy perspective, the physical and chemical properties and importance of oceans and seas, and the concept of underwater cultural heritage and Türkiye’s rich assets in this field, supported by visuals, videos, and examples from ongoing work.The underwater records showcased by the Akdeniz University team generated strong interest and excitement among students. Two dedicated Q&A segments provided space for active participation and in-depth discussion. At the end of the event, questionnaires were completed and the program concluded with a group photograph.The event was held with the participation of the school administration and 93 students. We sincerely thank the administration, teachers, and students of 30 Ağustos İmam Hatip Middle School for their warm hospitality.

Event Photos

Gazi Secondary School

Within the scope of the European Union–funded Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim) project, which has been carried out for two years in cooperation with Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students came together through Science in Blue activities.As part of the project, a presentation titled “Fast and Safe Operations Underwater”, organized for students of Gazi Secondary School, was delivered by Prof. Dr. Salih Murat Egi (Galatasaray University). The event was also attended by Bahar Egi from the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center.During the presentation, students had the opportunity to learn about the safety rules governing scientific and technical work carried out in underwater environments, how fast and effective underwater operations are planned, and the specialized equipment used in these processes. The importance of teamwork, proper planning, and safety procedures underwater was conveyed in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.The event contributed to increasing students’ awareness of underwater sciences and technologies, while also providing insight into scientific disciplines and related professions. The strong interest and curiosity shown by the students throughout the presentation demonstrated that the event successfully achieved its objectives.We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the school principal and the dedicated teachers of our school for their hospitality and valuable support in the successful implementation of the educational program, and we wish the participating students an educational journey filled with curiosity, learning, and success.

Event Photos

Hatice Bahaettin Şener Primary School

Within the scope of the European Union–funded Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim) project, which has been carried out for two years in cooperation with Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students came together through Science in Blue activities.As part of the project, a presentation and exhibition titled “Protecting Underwater Heritage”, organized for students of Hatice Bahaettin Şener Primary School, was conducted under the guidance of Tamer Özyiğit from Galatasaray University. The event was followed with great interest and curiosity by the students.During the presentation, students were informed about shipwrecks, historical remains, and cultural heritage elements located in our seas and inland waters. The importance of protecting this heritage, the scientific methods used to study underwater historical assets, and the key considerations for preserving them for future generations were conveyed in a clear and age-appropriate manner.Following the presentation, an exhibition was opened where students had the opportunity to closely examine the equipment used in underwater archaeology and research. Supported by visuals and materials, the exhibition increased students’ awareness of underwater cultural heritage and contributed to developing a sense of responsibility toward the seas and historical values.The educational activity enabled students to experience science, culture, and environmental awareness together, offering an important gain in fostering early-age awareness of the protection of underwater heritage.

Event Photos

Yavuz Selim Secondary School

As part of the Black Sea Region activities of the European Union–funded project “Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim)”, which has been carried out for two years by Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi Research Center, the training program titled “Mediterranean Underwater Cultural Heritage” was held on 19 December 2025 in the district of Hopa, Artvin.The event brought together students of Yavuz Selim Secondary School with project researchers Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan ÖNİZ and Dr. Ceyda ÖZTOSUN, who provided insights into underwater archaeological research conducted along Turkey’s Mediterranean coasts.The program aimed to introduce students to underwater archaeology studies carried out along Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline; to add a scientific perspective to the understanding of the sea and underwater environments among students living along the Black Sea coast; to evaluate potential ancient settlements and cultural heritage that may exist underwater across the Black Sea region—particularly in Hopa—from a historical perspective; to raise students’ awareness of their local environment; and to highlight the technological advancements used in underwater archaeological research. At the conclusion of the event, students directed a variety of creative and thoughtful questions to the researchers.We would like to express our sincere thanks to School Principal Duygu DİŞLİ DAĞISTANLI and the school’s dedicated teachers for their invitation and hospitality, and we wish the participating students every success in their educational journeys.

Şehit Sercan Öklük Primary School

Within the scope of the European Union–funded Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim) project, which has been carried out for two years by Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students came together through Science in Blue activities.As part of the project, the presentation titled “Robots Assisting Archaeologists” was followed with great interest by students of Şehit Ercan Öklük Primary School. During the event, students learned about archaeological research conducted in Turkey’s waters and underwater environments, and were introduced—through practical examples—to how underwater robots support archaeologists in these studies.Throughout the presentation, the role of underwater robots in locating, documenting, and protecting historical remains without causing damage was conveyed in an engaging, educational, and age-appropriate manner. These studies, which bring together science, technology, and archaeology, captured the students’ attention and curiosity.Following the presentation, an exhibition was organized where students had the opportunity to closely examine the equipment and technological systems used in underwater research. The event contributed to increasing students’ interest in science and technology and encouraged them to consider future careers in these fields.We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the school principal and the dedicated teachers of our school for their hospitality and valuable support in the successful implementation of the educational program, and we wish the participating students an educational journey filled with curiosity and success.

Event Photos

Atatürk Secondary School / Artvin

As part of the Black Sea Region activities of the European Union–funded project “Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim)”, which has been carried out for two years by Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and the Boğaziçi Research Center, the training program titled “Underwater Cultural Heritage in Inland Waters” was held on 19 December 2025 in the district of Hopa, Artvin.The event brought together students of Atatürk Secondary School with project researchers Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan ÖNİZ and Dr. Ceyda ÖZTOSUN. During the program, students were informed about underwater archaeology studies conducted along Turkey’s coasts and in its inland waters, as well as the cultural heritage values identified through these research activities.The event aimed to introduce students to underwater archaeological research carried out in Turkey’s inland waters; to provide a scientific perspective on the relationship between the sea, underwater environments, and students living along the Black Sea coast; to evaluate potential ancient settlements and cultural assets that may exist underwater across the Black Sea region—particularly in Hopa—from historical and geographical perspectives; to raise students’ awareness and sensitivity toward their local environment; and to highlight the technological advancements used in underwater archaeology.Thanks to the students’ keen interest and their diverse and thoughtful questions, the program was conducted in both an educational and engaging manner.We would like to extend our sincere thanks to School Principal Mehmet Ali BAYIR and School Project Coordinator and Science Teacher Erdal USTABAŞ for their invitation and hospitality; to the school’s dedicated teachers for their interest and support; and to all school staff for their assistance and warm welcome. We also wish the participating students a successful educational journey filled with curiosity and achievement.

Mecitözü Atatürk Secondary School

Within the scope of the European Union–funded Science in Blue (Mavide Bilim) project, which has been carried out for two years in cooperation with Akdeniz University, Galatasaray University, and Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, students of Mecitözü Atatürk Primary School in the Black Sea Region came together with the Science in Blue initiative.The event aimed to introduce science to students at an early age and to raise awareness about the seas. The presentation, delivered by Ufuk Faruk Vardar, a professional diver at the Boğaziçi University Underwater Research Center, was followed with great interest and curiosity by the students.During the presentation, students learned how deep it is possible to dive using scuba equipment in our seas. In addition, the basic diving equipment used in deep dives, the importance of safe diving, and the rules that must be followed during dives were explained through examples. The students were also informed about underwater conditions that change with increasing depth and the marine life that can be encountered in these environments.The presentation, delivered in an engaging and educational manner, was enriched by the active participation of the students. Visuals related to diving equipment and underwater creatures sparked great curiosity among the students, and many expressed their interest in diving and exploring marine-related professions in the future. The event contributed to broadening students’ perspectives on science, the seas, and the underwater world.We would like to thank our school principal and the dedicated teachers of our school for their hospitality and valuable support in the successful implementation of the educational program, and we wish our dear students a future filled with curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and success in their educational journeys.

Event Photos

Barbaros Secondary School