Rector Prof. Dr. Rana Kibar participated in an event at Near East University, held as part of the world’s largest aviation, space, and technology festival, TEKNOFEST TRNC 2025. The event brought together Turkey’s Minister of Industry and Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kacır, and Turkey’s first astronauts, Alper Gezeravcı and Tuva Cihangir Atasever, with science and technology enthusiasts.

In his speech, Minister Kacır discussed the progress made within Turkey’s National Technology Initiative and the National Space Program. He emphasized the important role of young people in the technology development process and reaffirmed the full trust in young minds in this field.

During the program, Alper Gezeravcı, Turkey’s first astronaut to travel to space, shared his experiences with the participants. Meanwhile, Tuva Cihangir Atasever spoke about her space journey and encouraged the youth to pursue a future shaped by science.

Rector Prof. Dr. Rana Kibar, in her evaluation after the event, stated:
"Keeping the interest of young people in science and technology alive is one of the most important duties of our universities. Events like this provide inspiring encounters and strengthen the bridge between academia and industry."