As part of our college's activities, the "A Sweet Experience: Chocolate Making Activity" was held in the Tourism Faculty's Practical Kitchen with the participation of children residing in the "Houses of Love" (orphanages). One of the most meaningful moments of the event was when our Rector, Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar, joined the children in the chocolate-making process, sharing in their excitement. Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar, prepared chocolate alongside the children and closely followed the process, creating joyful and unforgettable moments.

Within the program, our University's Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Department faculty member and Social Sciences Vocational School Director, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cevat Ercik, provided the children with age-appropriate theoretical information about the history of chocolate, its production stages, and basic making techniques. In the practical part, postgraduate students Pelin Su Aydın and Eyyüp Altun guided the children in preparing their own chocolates, explaining the chocolate-making process from both academic and scientific perspectives. The children experienced the joy of creating and gained new experiences in the field of gastronomy.

Throughout the event, children from the "Houses of Love" were accompanied by Davultepe Child Affairs Center Directorate staff members Social Worker Özge Önen, Social Worker Nursel Gergin, and care staff member Ayşenur Ayhan. Strengthening cooperation between the university and child protection services, the event stood out as an important social responsibility initiative supporting the social, cognitive, and emotional development of children in a safe and supportive environment.

The event, where children had the opportunity to taste chocolates they had made themselves, fostered the joy of sharing, creating together, and learning. This special gathering, which increased their awareness of gastronomy and allowed them to get to know the university environment closely, concluded with a group photo session.