Hosted by Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), the TÜBİTAK 56th High School Research Projects Regional Competition commenced with an opening ceremony at OMU's Prof. Dr. Mehmet Yalçın Taşmektepligil Indoor Sports Hall.

The event was attended by OMU Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, TÜBİTAK Samsun Regional Coordinator Prof. Dr. Yıldıray Topcu, Kastamonu Provincial Director of National Education Hasan Gümüş, Samsun Provincial Director of National Education Dr. Murat Ağar, along with numerous students and teachers.

Organized by TÜBİTAK BİDEB Samsun Regional Coordination Office, the exhibition features 100 selected projects and over 200 students from Samsun, Sinop, Kastamonu, Çorum, Tokat, Amasya, Ordu, and Giresun, chosen from among over 2,000 submissions. Students will have the opportunity to present their scientific and technological innovations through detailed project displays.

Rector Aydın: "We Are Closely Following the Process"

Highlighting the 22,500 project applications nationwide, Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın expressed her enthusiasm:

"Among these, approximately 2,250 applications were from the Samsun region, which is a great source of pride for us. Additionally, I noticed that the number of female students exceeded male students, which makes me extremely happy. This is an encouraging development for our country. Students will compete in 12 different fields, and this is truly exciting. We are closely following the process and appreciate all the support given to this significant organization."

"Our Goal is to Increase the Number and Quality of Projects"

TÜBİTAK Samsun Regional Coordinator Prof. Dr. Yıldıray Topcu, who delivered the opening speech, provided insights into the competition:

"This competition, which began in 1969, is being held simultaneously in 12 regional centers across Türkiye. The Samsun region includes Amasya, Çorum, Giresun, Kastamonu, Ordu, Samsun, Sinop, and Tokat.

For the 56th edition, we received 2,294 project applications in 12 different categories in our region:

* Biology (280)

* Geography (185)

* Values Education (222)

* Physics (146)

* Chemistry (142)

* Mathematics (153)

* Psychology (138)

* Sociology (222)

* History (180)

* Technological Design (317)

* Turkish Language and Literature (180)

* Software (129)

Nationally, a total of 22,586 projects were submitted. Our aim is to further increase both the quantity and quality of projects.

In the pre-evaluation stage, 136 faculty members from 29 universities assessed the projects. Each project was reviewed by three jury members via the TÜBİTAK Panel Management System (PYS). After thorough evaluation, 100 projects were selected for the regional exhibition."

"The Greatest Award is the Experience Gained by Students and Teachers"

Prof. Dr. Topcu emphasized the real value of the competition:

"The finalist projects selected by the jury panel will advance to the national finals in Ankara in May 2025, representing our region.

The main goal of TÜBİTAK’s project competitions is to encourage young minds to think critically, observe, and engage in research to solve real-world problems.

The awards given at the end are not the main objective, but rather a motivational tool to inspire students towards scientific inquiry. The greatest reward is the knowledge and skills students and their mentors gain throughout the project process.

Our recent experiences have demonstrated the vital importance of advancing science and technology in our country."

"Being Selected for the Regional Finals is Already a Huge Achievement"

Encouraging students, Prof. Dr. Topcu concluded:

"Dear young scientists, remember that the keys to success in research are determination, focus, hard work, and patience.

Completing a project from start to finish and being selected for the regional finals is already a major achievement. I sincerely congratulate all participants, thank their teachers and families, and wish them success in the exhibition process.

I also extend my gratitude to Ondokuz Mayıs University and Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın for their unwavering support in hosting this event."

Regional Finalists to Compete in National and International Arenas

Following the speeches, the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially inaugurated the TÜBİTAK 56th High School Research Projects Regional Competition. Participants showcased their projects, engaging with visitors and jury members.

The regional exhibition, held simultaneously in 12 regions across Türkiye, aims to promote young scientists and bring their innovations to the public.

The Samsun Regional Exhibition will conclude with an award ceremony on February 27, 2025, at OMU Atatürk Congress and Culture Center.

Winning projects will qualify for the Türkiye Finals, gaining national and international competition opportunities.