Manisa Celal Bayar University Technopark TEKNOKENT has celebrated companies that make significant contributions to the region’s R&D and innovation ecosystem with the "2nd Innovation and Technology Awards," which is held for the second time this year.

The Innovation and Technology Awards Ceremony, held at the Manisa Anemon Hotel, was attended by Prof. Dr. Rana Kibar, Rector of Manisa Celal Bayar University and Chairman of the Technopark Board, Mustafa Özkaynak, Deputy Governor of Manisa, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Kadir Ay, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Çetin, Prof. Dr. Oktay Üçer, Deputy Mayor of Yunusemre Mesut Doğan, Günseli Tufan, Director of Manisa İŞKUR, Mehmet Üçbaş, Director of Manisa Provincial Directorate of Industry and Technology, Oğuz Kılınç, Director of Manisa KOSGEB, members of the Manisa Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board, and company representatives.

In his opening speech, TEKNOKENT General Manager Prof. Dr. Osman Çulha stated that they continue to collaborate with industry stakeholders through both Technopark and the Technology Transfer Office. Çulha mentioned that the Technology Development Zone was established in 2012, began operations in 2017, and is now in its 7th year. He added, “57% of the companies in Technopark are software companies. We are implementing entrepreneurship programs for women entrepreneurs, people with disabilities, and disadvantaged groups. We have completed 326 R&D, software, and design projects. In addition, our companies are exporting. Exports amounting to 2.7 million dollars have been realized.”

Prof. Dr. Rana Kibar, Rector of Manisa Celal Bayar University and Chairman of the Technopark Board, said, “As a university, we have prioritized contributing to our country in the fields of R&D, innovation, and technological development. One of the most important arrangements we made after taking office was related to Technopark and the Technology Transfer Office. Osman Çulha has supported us in this regard. He has taken on the role of General Manager for both Technopark and the Technology Transfer Office. He and his team are leading these efforts. I thank him and his team.”

Rector Kibar continued, “We strive to work on technology, R&D, and innovation in our country. We know that the efforts in these areas will not only contribute to the national economy but also help improve societal welfare. We especially care about ensuring that our graduates are qualified to fill gaps in the industry. We are working to develop a more equipped infrastructure at the university to train better students. At this point, we are working to improve these aspects in collaboration with our Organized Industrial Zone, the entire industry, and R&D and innovation units.”

After the opening speeches, the awards were presented to the companies by the protocol members.