Academics from 37 Countries Gathered in Kayseri for a Sustainable Future
Hosted by Erciyes University, the Global Sustainability and Development Congress took place on 15–16 October 2025, featuring both in-person and online sessions. Over two days, a total of 279 papers were presented by researchers from around the world, transforming Erciyes University into an international hub for sustainability dialogue.
The congress brought together scholars, professionals, and policy experts from diverse disciplines to discuss the scientific, technological, and social dimensions of sustainability, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With its scope, participation, and academic rigor, the congress met the criteria for academic incentive and associate professorship recognition in Türkiye.
Opening Ceremony: The Evolution of Development and Regional Sustainability
The opening ceremony was held at the Faculty of Engineering Conference Hall with wide participation from academia and institutional representatives.
The opening speeches were delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Şükrü Taner Azgın, Sustainability Coordinator of Erciyes University; Dr. Atabek Movlyanov, General Coordinator of the IKSAD Institute; and Prof. Dr. Fatih Altun, Rector of Erciyes University.
The keynote speech was given by Mr. Yunus Emre Şeker, Secretary General of the Central Anatolia Development Agency (ORAN).
In his talk titled “The Evolution of Development and the Role of Sustainability in Regional Growth,” Şeker examined the historical transformation of development policies, the spatial dimensions of sustainability, and the dynamics of regional development in Türkiye.
His presentation drew significant attention for its analysis of the relationship between economic growth, spatial planning, and environmental balance.
The ceremony concluded with a plaque presentation to institutional partners and keynote contributors.
Scientific Sessions: From Energy to Education, Design to Governance
The in-person sessions addressed a wide range of themes highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of sustainability:
- Sustainable Economy and Governance
- Clean Energy, Climate and Water Systems
- Smart and Digital Sustainability
- Circular Production and Waste Management
- Sustainable Design, Architecture and Materials
- Industrial Design and Product Innovation
- Education, Communication and Behavioral Change
Academics from Erciyes University, Abdullah Gül University, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Gazi University, Kayseri University, and others shared their research findings.
Representatives from industry also participated, presenting practical approaches on sustainable manufacturing, carbon footprint management, circular economy models, and industrial transformation.
Through this collaboration, the congress strengthened the university–industry–government interface, turning knowledge production into actionable sustainability practices.
Global Participation: 37 Countries, 5 Continents, One Common Goal
The online sessions, hosted via Zoom, welcomed speakers from 37 countries across five continents, including Germany, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, China, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Portugal, Romania, Tunisia, and Vietnam.
Presentations focused on climate change adaptation, artificial intelligence, sustainable finance, renewable energy, sustainable education, and circular economy frameworks.
This diversity transformed the congress into a truly global platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on sustainability challenges and solutions.
Academic Contribution and Strategic Impact
A total of 279 papers were presented, spanning fields from engineering and environmental sciences to design, economics, communication, and governance.
Many studies directly addressed the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with particular emphasis on:
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
The congress underscored Erciyes University’s leadership in sustainability through its ongoing efforts in green campus initiatives, research-driven transformation, and community engagement.
By integrating academic knowledge with policy and practice, the university continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Türkiye’s sustainability vision at both national and global levels.
Acknowledgments and Future Vision
The Sustainability Coordination Office of Erciyes University extends its sincere appreciation to all participating academics, researchers, students, moderators, and institutional partners for their valuable contributions.
The congress outcomes are expected to contribute not only to academic advancement but also to the knowledge infrastructure of sustainable transformation at local, national, and global scales.
Erciyes University will continue to expand its international sustainability network in the coming years, organizing new events and research collaborations that explore the intersections of energy, economy, culture, education, design, and ethics paving the way toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.
