18th Project Fair and Competition Held

18th Project Fair and Competition, The 18th Project Fair and Competition, organized by the Faculty of Engineering at Eskişehir Technical University, took place at the İki Eylül Campus with strong participation. At the fair, final-year students from the Faculty presented and competed with their graduation projects, transforming the knowledge and skills gained during four years of engineering education into tangible results.

Thirteen companies set up booths at the fair, and representatives from approximately 30 other companies attended, creating a productive environment that strengthened university-industry collaboration and enabled students to engage directly with the sector. Students had the opportunity to evaluate and improve their projects based on industry feedback, while companies gained direct access to qualified talent.

Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Onur Kaya and Prof. Dr. Yunus Özdemir, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Prof. Dr. Hanife Apaydın Özkan, and Chairman of the Eskişehir Chamber of Industry Celalettin Kesikbaş attended the event, meeting with students and academics.

In his speech, Prof. Dr. Onur Kaya emphasized the critical importance of academic and industry-focused projects conducted at universities for the country's development, stating, "Such events offer valuable opportunities for students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice. At the same time, they increase interaction between universities and industry, paving the way for joint projects. I want everyone to know that behind each of our graduates is strong university support.”

In his remarks, Celalettin Kesikbaş highlighted the importance of sustainability and green transformation, stating, "Not only technical proficiency but also environmental and social awareness are expected from the engineers of the future. Green transformation is essential for a sustainable industry. The driving force behind this transformation will be well-trained engineers." Kesikbaş noted that such events are crucial for making young people's potential visible.

Of the 187 projects exhibited at this year's fair, 70 received support under TÜBİTAK 2209-A and 28 under TÜBİTAK 2209-B. Additionally, for the first time this year, award categories were expanded to include "Industry" and "Sustainability," bringing the total number of awarded projects to 30. In this way, not only technical achievements but also projects that make a difference in social and environmental responsibility were recognized.

The event concluded with the presentation of awards to the winning project teams and commemorative photographs. This fair, organized by the Faculty of Engineering at ESTÜ, plays a significant role in increasing students' sectoral awareness, preparing them for the future, and turning university-industry collaboration into tangible outcomes.