Within the scope of the “KA220: IMPACT HUB: AI-Powered Youth Participation Model for
Inclusive Governance” project carried out under the European Union Erasmus+ program and
coordinated by Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality (EBB), the event titled “International
Humanitarian Aid Networks: Coordination, Ethics, and Youth” was hosted by Erzurum
Technical University (ETU).
Organized in cooperation with ETU and EBB, and with the collaboration of the Faculty of
Economics and Administrative Sciences, the Faculty of Health Sciences, and the Science and
Ideas Society, the program aimed to examine the role of young people in humanitarian aid
processes and their ethical responsibilities. The event was attended by ETU Rector Prof. Dr.
Bülent Çakmak, Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality Secretary General Zafer Aynalı, World
Health Organization (WHO) Turkey Country Office Head Dr. Tasnim Atatrah, academics, and
many students.
EBB Secretary General Aynalı: The Project Will Strengthen Young People’s
Leadership Capacity
Speaking at the opening of the program held at Prof. Dr. Muammer Yaylalı Conference Hall,
EBB Secretary General Zafer Aynalı emphasized the role of youth in local and global
humanitarian aid processes, stating:
“We are taking the necessary steps to ensure that ideas generated by young people are
transformed into local practices, that volunteer networks operate in a coordinated manner, and
that accessibility of public services is increased. Bringing our youth together today around
knowledge, conscience, and solidarity is a great source of pride for us. This event will enable
young people to develop skills in accessing accurate information during crises, establishing
secure communication, and applying ethical principles. This process will also strengthen
young people’s leadership capacities and reinforce their sense of social responsibility.”
Rector Çakmak: The Mission of Universities Is to Build a Culture That
Protects Human Dignity
Drawing attention to the importance of universities’ human rights- and youth-oriented role,
Rector Prof. Dr. Bülent Çakmak said:
“The Impact HUB project will strengthen student-centered participation models. Through
various activities, young people will develop action plans, deepen inter-institutional
coordination, and concretize a human rights perspective. The mission of universities is not
only to transfer knowledge but also to build a culture that protects human dignity. Today, our
hearts are with our brothers and sisters who are subjected to oppression in different parts of
the world; the most auspicious day will be the day we witness the end of these injustices.”
WHO Turkey Office Head Atatrah: Young People’s Contributions Are a
Valuable Investment in Ethical and Professional Leadership of the Future
The guest of honor of the program, WHO Turkey Country Office Head Dr. Tasnim Atatrah,
emphasized the importance of coordination and the role of youth in health crises, stating:

“The work we carry out in Turkey is a strong example of how a human rights approach can be
transformed into concrete outcomes. We continue our support in areas such as emergency
preparedness, strengthening mental health services, and improving service delivery to
vulnerable communities. Ensuring that resources reach those in need, protecting privacy, and
maintaining transparency are among our core priorities. We are pleased to see the creativity,
energy, and commitment of young people at today’s program. Their contributions represent a
valuable investment in the ethical and professional leadership of the future.”
Following the speeches, student groups presented declarations they had prepared from their
own perspectives on fundamental issues such as shelter, food, education, and refugee rights.
In a digital photography exhibition prepared under the theme “one object, one right,” young
participants conveyed human rights stories through everyday objects. Additionally, in video
interviews conducted across the campus, students shared how they would express the essence
of human rights in a single sentence.
One of the most notable parts of the program was the interactive Q&A session between WHO
Turkey Office Head Dr. Tasnim Atatrah and the students. Young participants asked direct
questions about the “do no harm” principle in the field, coordination during crises, and career
paths in humanitarian aid. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of
appreciation and a special workshop in which Dr. Atatrah shared her global experiences.
Proceeds from the charity bazaar organized as part of the event were donated to the UN World
Food Programme’s Gaza food aid fund.
Corporate Communications and Marketing Directorate December 18, 2025