Social innovation projects, prepared within the scope of the cooperation protocol signed between Üsküdar University and the Black Sea Confederation of Non-Governmental Organizations (KASTOB), were discussed at the “Social Innovation Projects Evaluation Meeting” hosted by Üsküdar University. The meeting was organized to provide a significant platform for generating innovative solutions to societal problems, to deeply analyze the projects, and to develop future-oriented strategies.
The meeting, held at the Üsküdar University Central Campus Senate hall, was attended by Üsküdar University Founding Rector Psychiatrist Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan, KASTOB President Nevzat Duyar, Akdeniz University faculty member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sami Mencet, Üsküdar University Project Development Director Asst. Prof. Dr. Nebiye Yaşar, federation representatives who prepared social innovation projects, and KASTOB volunteer team Earth Angels.
Societal Transformation within the Scope of Social Innovation and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
The prominent social innovation projects at the meeting aim to increase their positive impact on society within the framework of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). These projects directly contribute to areas such as equal opportunities in education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), economic growth and employment (SDG 8), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). Through these projects, the aim is to create lasting impacts in various segments of society in line with SDG targets, focusing on improving the quality of life for youth, women, disadvantaged groups, and elderly individuals.
The Role of Social Innovation and University-NGO Collaboration in Societal Change…
At the meeting, where the power arising from the combination of academic and field-based approaches to social innovation projects was emphasized, it was stated that these projects offer solutions to reduce societal inequalities in line with the SDGs and provide a sustainable development perspective.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Nebiye Yaşar, who moderated the meeting, stated that the projects blend academic knowledge with field experiences. Yaşar said; “These projects were designed to help society achieve an equal and fair structure in line with the SDGs, especially considering the needs of disadvantaged groups such as youth and women.”
Scientific-Based Approach to SDG Targets
Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan emphasized the importance of university and civil society cooperation in developing scientific and sustainable solutions aligned with the SDGs. “Social innovation contributes to society's achievement of SDG targets by producing creative and sustainable solutions. These projects have the potential to contribute not only to today but also to the future,” said Tarhan, adding that young people will take an active role in these projects and become pioneers of social change.
A New Era in KASTOB Cooperation and Contribution to SDG
KASTOB President Nevzat Duyar stated that the cooperation with Üsküdar University opens the doors to a new era for KASTOB. Duyar said; “These projects will contribute to SDG targets such as economic growth (SDG 8) and strong institutions (SDG 16), supporting not only the social and cultural structure of the region but also its economic development.” emphasizing the wide-ranging impact of the projects.
Innovative Strategies and Sustainable Solution Proposals
At the meeting, innovative strategies and sustainable solution proposals were discussed to increase the projects' impact on society. Developed in partnership with Üsküdar University and KASTOB, these projects aim to achieve sustainable societal transformation based on the universal principles of social innovation and to make lasting contributions to Turkey's social development in line with the SDGs.
KASTOB High Advisory Board Membership Certificate Presented to Tarhan
At the end of the meeting, KASTOB President Nevzat Duyar and High Advisory Board Chairman Mahmut Ekşi presented Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan with the “KASTOB High Advisory Board Membership” certificate. This honor was regarded as a significant step towards strengthening inter-institutional cooperation, symbolizing Prof. Dr. Tarhan's contributions to societal transformation projects within the SDG framework.
