Exploring Innovation and Culture: Highlights from the Study Visit to Afyon Kocatepe University
From March 4th to 8th, 2024, a study visit took place at Afyon Kocatepe University in Turkey. The trip was organized as part of the project “Materials Science Ma(s)ters – developing a new master’s degree,” co-funded by the European Union.
The welcome meeting at the Erasmus Café officially inaugurated the study visit, creating a space for mutual acquaintance and initial discussions. Subsequent meetings with representatives of the Faculty, Institute, and Erasmus+ office provided an excellent opportunity for exchanging experiences and familiarizing with the educational offerings, research scope, ongoing research and educational projects, and international collaboration opportunities.
A significant part of the program included visits to facilities and laboratories dedicated to teaching activities for materials engineering students. Participants had the chance to explore the educational infrastructure, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and innovative teaching methods.
An essential element of the visit was the opportunity to learn about Afyon Kocatepe University’s collaboration model with the industrial sector, particularly in terms of education. Participants visited Garanti Kompozit (Yozgat), where they attended a lecture on the application of modern composite materials in bulletproof vest production and toured an accredited ballistic laboratory. During the visit to the Boron Institute and Hydrogen Tech. Lab. (Ankara), participants broadened their knowledge about hydrogen production and storage. Company representatives emphasized that preparing students to face contemporary and future energy challenges, such as hydrogen technologies, highlights their potential in shaping the technological future and is a key element of modern engineering education. Another stop was at Şahinkul Makina (Ankara), a company in the automotive industry. Participants learned more about the close cooperation between the enterprise and the academic community aimed at preparing future engineers for job market challenges. They also discussed the benefits of such cooperation for both sides, with the company gaining qualified graduates and students acquiring valuable practical experience.
During the study visit in Turkey, participants had a unique opportunity to delve into the rich culture and history of the country through a series of planned activities, including a visit to the Afyon Museum, a walking tour of the ancient land of Phrygia, and sightseeing in Bursa.
More updates from each day of the visit will be available soon.
