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The head of Türkiye’s premier technology event, Teknofest, emphasized Thursday that high technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are pivotal to shaping the future, stressing that AI, when aligned with ethical values and purpose, can offer humanity a brighter tomorrow.
Selcuk Bayraktar, speaking at the opening ceremony of Teknofest in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), held at the historic Ercan Airport in Lefkose, underscored that AI could drive revolutionary advancements in healthcare, education, and provide countless opportunities that will improve lives.
https://twitter.com/teknofestint/status/1917951479836451115
This marks the first time Teknofest has been held in the TRNC, with the goal of promoting public engagement with cutting-edge scientific and technological innovation.
Bayraktar, noting the global challenges of the moment, remarked: “A great crime against humanity, a genocide, is taking place right next to us. Children are being bombed in Gaza. This darkness can only be lifted by the light of truth. A world where technology is used to foster justice and compassion must be established.”
Addressing the TRNC’s significance, Bayraktar said the region will not only symbolize historical struggles but also serve as a beacon for extraordinary achievements.
He highlighted the TRNC’s potential as a global hub for technology and science, located at the heart of the Mediterranean.
“The TRNC should not only be visited for vacation but also for science, technology, and production,” he added. "New ideas should emerge here. Research and development should thrive here, and projects that will leave their mark on the world should be born from here.”
Bayraktar called the TRNC “the island of peace,” stressing its role in ensuring security and unity in the Mediterranean.
Teknofest, organized by the Turkish Technology Team (T3) Foundation and Türkiye's Ministry of Industry and Technology, has been held annually since 2018 with support from various government entities, private sector partners, and universities.
Traditionally held in different Turkish cities during even-numbered years and in Istanbul during odd-numbered years, this is the second time Teknofest has taken place internationally, following its 10th edition in Azerbaijan.
In 2024, the event in the southern Turkish city of Adana attracted approximately 1.1 million visitors.
Turkish Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir also spoke at the event, stating that the TRNC has the potential to become an innovation island through collaboration across all sectors.
"With more than 100,000 university students and its unique beauty, this land can become the hub for IT and technology initiatives serving the world," Kacir said.
"The excitement of 47,000 young people participating in the six competitions at this Teknofest is a sign of a bright future," he added. "Our hope is that this enthusiasm continues to grow in the TRNC."
Haluk Gorgun, head of Türkiye's Defense Industries Agency, pointed out the importance of independence in the defense sector. “We are a country that understands the pain of foreign dependence, especially in defense. Teknofest has become the biggest platform for exploration in our country. It has allowed us to discover our youth, the nation’s most valuable resource," he said.
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