At Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), efforts are underway to increase the added value of hemp as an industrial product. Projects and R&D studies are being conducted in Samsun not only on the cultivation and harvesting of hemp but also on its use in the defense industry, as an insulation material, in the health sector, and various industries.

OMU Rector Prof. Dr. Yavuz Ünal told Anadolu Agency (AA) that OMU began its work on hemp production and processing 25 years ago. He noted that in 2019, the university established the "Hemp Research Institute" within its structure. "We have hosted significant studies on converting hemp into an industrial product. Specifically, our university has been working on developing genes that can be cultivated in different regions, soil types, and climatic conditions, a study also recognized by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK). With over 2,000 hemp genes, OMU is offering Türkiye a treasure. We are striving to ensure product diversity in hemp production that can be used in various regions and for different purposes in Türkiye," Ünal stated.

"Dependence on Foreign Defense Industries Will Decrease"

Prof. Dr. Ünal emphasized that increasing the added value of hemp is possible by transforming it into an industrial product. He said, "OMU has signed a protocol with the Ministry of National Defense to produce a domestic and national cable. The prototype of this will be produced soon. We have a significant project to eliminate dependency on foreign sources by producing the heat-shrink tubing and then the cable."

Highlighting another project involving hemp with TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace Industries), Rector Ünal noted, "Hemp's flexible, lightweight, and durable structure makes it suitable for various uses, especially in the defense industry, such as in aircraft and other applications. This is promising for the future. We believe it will add significant momentum and bring a distinct advantage to Türkiye's defense industry and development efforts."

In addition to these projects, Yavuz Ünal mentioned a protocol with the Turkish Space Agency. "Our work in this area is ongoing. The project will start soon, but we do not want to disclose too many details since it is a special area. In this sense, OMU has established a good collaboration with the Turkish Space Agency. Likely, we will continue with two different projects," he said.

"OMU Will Be a Leading Institution in Türkiye for Hemp"

Prof. Dr. Ünal also noted that studies are being conducted to increase the added value of hemp by introducing it into the health sector. "One of the significant aspects is the direct use of hemp in treating cancer and similar health issues. Although the legal process has not yet been completed, serious projects are underway at the university. We have studies that will support the pharmaceutical industry. I hope that in the near future, hemp will be defined as a priority area for OMU. Our university will be one of the leading institutions in Türkiye in hemp research," he said.

"Hemp is a Miracle Plant"

Prof. Dr. Ünal pointed out that hemp is a versatile and traditional material in textiles. He added, "We value textiles because they are traditionally part of our nation's culture. Hemp is used in accessories, clothing, and daily tools, being both durable and healthy, as well as a local product. Therefore, hemp should not be seen merely as a plant. In fact, hemp is a miracle plant. It is a plant that offers hope in almost every direction, expanding our horizons for the future and guiding our research areas."