UFEST 2026 Was on Our University Campus
06.03.2026
Organized under the leadership of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and in cooperation with our University, Turkey's most comprehensive transportation festival, UFEST, was held on our Campus between March 4-6, 2026.
During the first two days of the festival, numerous public institutions operating in the transportation and communication sectors met with our students. Institutions such as the General Directorate of Infrastructure Investments (AYGM), the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK), the State Airports Authority (DHMİ), the General Directorate of Highways (KGM), PTT, Turkish State Railways (TCDD), TCDD Transportation, Turkish Rail Systems Vehicles Industry Inc. (TÜRASAŞ), and TÜRKSAT participated in the events, where sector representatives provided students with information about their work and career opportunities. In the application areas set up within the scope of the festival, our students had the opportunity to closely examine various technological systems and also experienced driving on a train simulator.
The closing program, held on Friday, March 6, 2026, the third day of the festival, began with a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a speech from our Rector, Prof. Dr. Cemal Yıldız. In his speech, the Rector emphasized that transportation and infrastructure technologies are one of the fundamental elements shaping the world of the future, stating that transportation is not merely about getting from one point to another, but a strategic force connecting civilizations. He noted that our university, with its academic structure, serves as a strategic bridge in the field of transportation technologies, and that the scientific and technological achievements of our students strengthen this vision.
During the program, Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Osman Boyraz delivered a presentation titled "Transportation Vision in the Turkish Century." In his speech, Boyraz comprehensively evaluated the progress Turkey has made in the field of transportation in recent years, emphasizing that transportation policies are at the heart of not only technical investments but also economic, social, and strategic transformations. Stating that Turkey has become an indispensable country on global trade routes thanks to the advantages provided by its geopolitical location, Boyraz drew attention to the strategic importance of international transportation lines, especially the Middle Corridor. He noted that they view university meetings as environments for mutual learning, and that the suggestions and criticisms of young people are guiding principles for them.
