The “Forensic Sciences Student Workshop” was organized by Üsküdar Üniversitesi Department of Health, Culture and Sports and the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club, with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports ÜNİDES. The opening speech of the event, held with the main theme “Science on Campus, Justice in the World”, was delivered by Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy. Atasoy emphasized that forensic science is not only a technical field but also carries a great responsibility in terms of human rights and ethical values, drawing attention to the workshop's importance for young people in terms of sharing a vision and building social responsibility. Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan, who participated in the program with a message, stated that in societies where justice is not embraced as a value, the strong oppress the weak, pointing to the responsibility of scientists in this regard.
Vice-Rector, Head of the Forensic Sciences Department of the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy, along with faculty and department academics and club members, attended the event held at the Nermin Tarhan Conference Hall, Üsküdar Üniversitesi Central Campus.
Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan: “If justice is not accepted as a value, the strong oppress the weak”
Psychiatrist Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan, Founding Rector of Üsküdar Üniversitesi, participated in the Forensic Sciences Student Workshop, held with the main theme “Science on Campus, Justice in the World”, by sending a message.
Tarhan's message was read by Sevim Turan, President of the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club. Here is Tarhan's message:
“I thank the organizing committee for choosing such an ambitious, yet also very rightful, theme like Science on Campus, Justice in the World and for organizing the event. Imagine a ship. It's sailing in the middle of the sea. Those working on the lower decks must go up for basic needs like water. If their needs to access the upper decks are not met, they will start drilling through the ship to find a solution, and the ship will take on water and begin to sink. The world is like such a ship. There are layers of power and wealth. The tendency to ignore the lower layers is a weakness of the upper layers. As a result, animosity towards wealth and violence find their way. If justice is not accepted as a value, the strong oppress the weak. Since no control system is formed, everyone loses.
The understanding of justice means equal rights and opportunities!
Solutions are produced if there is academic freedom, a culture of ethical discussion, freedom of expression, critical thinking, seeing differences as data and respecting them, and conflict resolution, all offered by science. The understanding of justice means equal rights and opportunities. Balance in income justice and fair resource sharing is only possible with the limitation of power and the prevention of a perception of impunity. What does science contribute here? Observations generate information and data, develop hypotheses, test them, and offer solution options. It offers accessible ways while protecting human dignity.
Global justice is closely related to the fair use of global resources
If universities and scientists remain silent in the face of power, this shame and responsibility are enough for them. It is very painful that fundamental human rights, which are universal values such as the right to life, the right to education, and the right to a fair trial, are not valid in the Middle East. The silence of scientists who should be defending Western values is a historical illusion. Everyone will suffer. As Üsküdar Üniversitesi, we published the Manifesto of Universal Human Values and Rights together with Kazakhstan Astana Gumilyov Eurasian National University in May 2024. It has reached 392 thousand signatures so far. There is a great need for this voice to be heard. I wish for a successful meeting that serves the globalization of justice, and I thank you.”
This message from Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan was applauded by the program participants.
Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy: “This event is an important opportunity to share a vision”
Vice-Rector, Head of the Forensic Sciences Department of the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy, delivered the opening speech of the workshop. Atasoy said; “This meaningful event, where we have come together under the theme of Science on Campus, Justice in the World, is an important opportunity not only for academic knowledge sharing but also for sharing a vision, fostering an ideal, and remembering the transformative power of science. Forensic science is not merely about analyses conducted in laboratories, complex devices, and statistical models. Above all, this discipline aims to pursue the truth on behalf of humanity, establish fairness, and contribute to the provision of justice. Every microscopic trace, every DNA sample, or every piece of digital data is not merely a technical finding but a part of a human story. This is what makes forensic science a special and equally responsible field.
Scientific research and academic production usually take place behind the protected walls of universities. However, we know that the true value of science is measured by its impact on society. The knowledge shaped on campuses can balance the scales of justice in courtrooms, form the basis of effective policies in legislative assemblies, and encourage more ethical practices in police stations. Most importantly, it can strengthen citizens' sense of trust, transparency, and rights in their lives.” she said.
“You are not only the carriers of science but also the advocates of ethical principles”
Atasoy stated that forensic science plays a critical role in shedding light on systemic injustice; “You, the students present here today, are not only the carriers of science but also the advocates of ethical principles. The analytical thinking, objectivity, and verification habits you will develop will guide not only your careers but also in fulfilling your social responsibility. Because forensic science plays a critical role in illuminating not only crimes but also wrongful judgments, prejudices, and systemic injustices. Presenting the knowledge we produce on campus to the service of justice requires courage, determination, and a deep sense of social responsibility. What you learn here today might one day lead to an innocent person's freedom or shed light on the truth in a complex case. Therefore, human rights, ethical principles, and a critical perspective are among the fundamental tools of forensic sciences, as much as professional knowledge.” she said.
“Forensic science is respect for humanity”
Atasoy emphasized that a true scientist must take responsibility; “Our workshop offers you the opportunity not only to gain knowledge but also to question, encounter different perspectives, and reflect on your own journey. Every session, every discussion, and every question will be a new brick in the construction of a science that serves justice. Let's not forget that forensic science is not only about technical knowledge but also about conscience, responsibility, and respect for human beings. A true scientist is not only someone who deals with science but also someone who feels. Not just someone who questions, but also someone who takes responsibility. With these feelings and thoughts, I wish for the workshop to be productive, enlightening, and inspiring for all of you, and I hope that you keep your scientific curiosity, ethical stance, and passion for justice always alive.” she stated.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soner Kızıl: “Our students' passion for producing science will open new avenues in our field”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soner Kızıl, Advisor to the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club, spoke within the scope of the workshop. Kızıl said; “We are aware of how important a role forensic sciences play in establishing justice. Coming together today with a workshop shaped by the perspectives of young scientists is not only an academic exchange but also an indicator of social responsibility and conscious citizenship. With the trust I have in our university's scientific vision and the energy of youth, we all believe that this workshop will yield very valuable outcomes. Our students' passion for producing science, discussing, and questioning will open new avenues not only for their own development but also for our field. This event is not only a knowledge-sharing platform but also a very valuable gathering where young people can express their thoughts, exchange ideas, and grasp the social role of science more deeply. Our students who will speak, make presentations, and ask questions here today will not only reveal their scientific curiosity but also a future vision shaped by a sense of responsibility.” he stated.
Sevim Turan: “We hope that every step we take on this path leaves a mark”
Sevim Turan, President of the Üsküdar Üniversitesi Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club, spoke within the scope of the organized workshop. Turan said; “Today, we came together saying ‘Science on campus, justice in the world.’ This title is not just a theme. It is also a representation and expression of the responsibility we carry, the path we try to walk, and the values we believe in. Justice is the foundation of our human stance as much as it is our professional goal. However, we know that justice can only be achieved not merely through emotions or assumptions, but through evidence, data, and scientific methods. With this understanding, we are growing, developing, and trying to contribute to you under the umbrella of forensic sciences. This workshop was designed not only as a platform for transferring information but also as a space where ideas are discussed, curiosity is encouraged, and young people have a voice. While preparing this event, we did not just organize it. We thought together, decided together, produced together. Because we know that science, justice, and our future are all possible together. Our aim and hope is to leave a more just world for tomorrow than today. With this intention, we hope that every step we take on this path leaves a mark.” she stated.
Following the speeches, presentations began
Atty. Dr. Tanıl Başkan contributed to the workshop under the title “Forensic Sciences and Law”, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soner Kızıl under “New Psychoactive Substances”, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Nihan Arslan under “Autopsy and Forensic Sciences”, and Specialist Forensic Midwife İnci Yağmur Tezbasan Arslan under “Evidence Collection Kits and International Standards in Sexual Violence Crimes”.
Student poster presentations were also made
As a result of the votes, Didem Nur Gök came first with her project titled “Investigation of DNA Recovery After Cleaning Bloodstains on Walls Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Satin Wall Paint”.
The program ended with a group photo session.
