International students studying at Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University came together at a “Science Café” event ahead of Eid al-Fitr. During the event, students shared the holiday traditions of their home countries while also having the opportunity to closely experience and learn about Turkey’s Eid culture.
BEUN hosted a meaningful program as part of its “Science Café” meetings aimed at increasing social awareness. Organized by the University’s Science Communication Office, the event titled “Cultural Gathering Away from Home: Holiday Traditions” was held at the cafeteria of the Faculty of Engineering.
In line with the decisions and incentives of the Council of Higher Education, the Science Communication Office—established through the initiatives of Rector İsmail Hakkı Özölçer—organized the talk to introduce the meaning and cultural dimensions of Eid al-Fitr in Türkiye to international students who are away from their families during the holiday.
The program was moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Melek Toparlak Şahin, Assistant Coordinator of Corporate Communications at BEUN and Head of the Science Communication Office, while the guest speaker was Asst. Prof. Dr. Serdar Deniz Özdemir, an academic from the Department of Turkish Language and Literature at BEUN’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The event was attended by Karaelmas TÖMER Director Asst. Prof. Dr. Ali Yumurtacı, academics, and many international students.
Holidays: The Strongest Moments of Culture, Memory, and Sharing
During the event, it was emphasized that holidays are not merely special dates on the calendar, but also the times when social values, memories, and cultural bonds are most strongly experienced. The program brought together students from different geographies around shared emotions, highlighting the unifying power of holidays.
Eid Traditions in Anatolia: Tables, Visits, and a Culture of Sharing
Speaking at the event, Asst. Prof. Dr. Serdar Deniz Özdemir stated that Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Anatolia have a deep-rooted history and said:
“Ramadan is one of the periods when abundance and prosperity are most deeply felt. Especially in Zonguldak, during Ramadan, tables feature savory pastries known as ‘lokum,’ various types of börek, and traditional desserts such as rice pudding and baklava. These foods are not merely treats but also symbols of sharing and togetherness.”
He also noted that Eid mornings carry a special meaning, emphasizing that traditions such as attending the Eid prayer, visiting elders, and giving sweets and pocket money to children strengthen social solidarity.
International Students Share Their Traditions: “We Are Different, Yet We Share the Same Feelings”
Throughout the program, international students contributed to cultural exchange by sharing Eid traditions from their own countries. They spoke about holiday preparations, family visits, and traditional dishes, highlighting many common practices such as distributing sweets and chocolates, preparing special meals, and visiting elders. Some students mentioned cleaning their homes before the holiday, buying new clothes, and welcoming Eid mornings with great excitement. They also introduced dishes unique to their cultures, emphasizing that Eid carries a universal sense of joy and unity.
Cultural Interaction Strengthens the Spirit of Unity and Togetherness
It was noted that the “Science Café” meetings organized by the BEUN Science Communication Office will continue to enhance cultural interaction within the University and help build strong bonds among students. Such events, where different cultures come together, make significant contributions to students’ social and cultural development.
As part of the program, sweets were distributed to help students experience the joy of Eid and feel the spirit of this cherished tradition. The event concluded with friendly conversations among participants and a commemorative group photo.
