The "II. Theology Research Student Symposium," organized by our University's Faculty of Theology for undergraduate and graduate students, was held on May 20th at our University's Prof. Dr. Uğur Oral Culture Center. Bringing together future academic candidates, young researchers, and expert professors in their fields, the symposium hosted a rich scientific feast with face-to-face sessions.

The Opening Program Began with a Recitation of the Holy Quran

The program began with a moment of silence and the recitation of the National Anthem, followed by a recitation of the Holy Quran by Lecturer Dr. Muzaffer İnneci.

In his opening speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasan Telli, speaking on behalf of the Symposium Organizing Committee, stated that they had come together around the goal of "thinking together, producing together, and searching for truth," which are among the most fundamental characteristics of our scholarly tradition. Telli, drawing attention to the contribution the symposium offers to young researchers, stated, "Our symposium, which we are holding for the second time this year, aims to bring young researchers together with the academic world, make different studies visible, and strengthen interdisciplinary ties. We believe that such events, which support the academic courage of our undergraduate and graduate students in particular, are vital for the future of the field of theology. I am fully confident that the ideas that sprout here will open doors to new studies."

"The Journey of Knowledge: The Endeavor to Seek Truth"

Prof. Dr. Abdulvahid Sezen, Dean of the Faculty of Theology at our university, emphasized in his speech that universities are not only places where knowledge is produced, but also places where young people gain critical thinking and a sense of scientific responsibility. Prof. Dr. Sezen stated that the field of theology is not just a discipline that transmits knowledge. Sezen stated, "The field of theology is a multifaceted area of ​​thought that seeks to understand humanity, society, morality, faith, and civilization. In today's world, addressing religious knowledge with authentic sources, academic methods, and a wisdom perspective is more important than ever. Valuable young people; scientific work requires patience, effort, and morality. The journey of knowledge is not just about accumulating information; it is also an effort to seek the truth."

Following the opening speeches, Professor Dr. Osman Türer, former Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Kilis 7 December University, delivered an insightful opening lecture to the participants.

Comprehensive Sessions from Classical Sciences to Digitalization

Following the lecture, simultaneous scientific sessions commenced. As a tribute, the halls where the symposium was held were named after the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Hz. Mikdad, Hz. Abu Ubaidah, and Hz. Maysara, who played significant roles in the conquest of Mersin during the time of Caliph Umar.

The symposium, attended by students from nine different universities, featured over 40 scientific presentations. In nine separate sessions, fundamental areas such as Islamic history, religious education, hadith, tafsir, fiqh, Sufism, Arabic, and kalam were discussed, along with contemporary issues examined from the perspective of Islamic sciences, including artificial intelligence, digitalization, and modern societal problems.

Enriched by researchers from various universities, the symposium concluded after question-and-answer sessions and general evaluations moderated by expert academics.

Press and Public Relations Branch Directorate