Within the scope of the “From Shadow to Light” Project, implemented through the cooperation of Üsküdar University and the Kastamonu Associations Federation (KASDERFED), with the support of the Ministry of Interior’s Directorate General of Civil Society Relations and under the auspices of the Istanbul Governorship, a series of events were held in Kastamonu bringing together local youth.

The program included talks, a museum visit, a graffiti activity, and a sightseeing tour. The gathering aimed to raise awareness among young people in areas such as social responsibility, volunteerism, and leadership. Participants were also presented with Prof. Nevzat Tarhan’s book “Being a Conscious Youth”.

The program was attended by Kastamonu Deputy Governor Ahmet Atılgan, Former Minister of the Interior Murat Başesgioğlu, Üsküdar University Young Brains Academy Director and Community Contribution Coordinator Asst. Prof. Nebiye Yaşar, Üsküdar University Faculty of Medicine Asst. Prof. Ayhan Özşahin, KASDERFED President Fatma Kıranoğlu, Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Assembly Member İshak Koçoğlu, and Mahmut Ekşi, Founder of Science and Virtue Schools. The opening speech was delivered by KASDERFED President Fatma Kıranoğlu, followed by addresses to the youth from İTO Assembly Member İshak Koçoğlu, Deputy Governor Ahmet Atılgan, and Former Minister of the Interior Murat Başesgioğlu.


Focus on social awareness, volunteerism, and leadership
As part of the program, Asst. Prof. Nebiye Yaşar from Üsküdar University spoke to the young participants, offering insights on strengthening their social awareness, volunteer spirit, and leadership skills.
Asst. Prof. Ayhan Özşahin from Üsküdar University’s Faculty of Medicine delivered a talk on safe behavior in nature and sustainable living in harmony with the environment.

The program featured a range of activities
The program continued with graffiti artwork created by the youth, followed by a trip to Horma Canyon. During the visit, participants also met with Pınarbaşı Mayor Serkan Arı and engaged in conversations about Kastamonu’s natural wealth, canyons, and cultural significance.
The visit was also joined by Kastamonu Provincial Director of Youth and Sports Sami Kuşçu, Kastamonu businessman Hayati Yazıcıoğlu, Amorium Hotel Owner Enüs Koç, and Vedat Tek Cultural Center Director İlknur Acar.
Tarhan’s “Being a Conscious Youth” gifted to participants
At the end of the program, all young participants were presented with “Being a Conscious Youth” by President of Üsküdar University Psychiatrist Prof. Nevzat Tarhan.




Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)






