Department of Gerontology, Heartfelt Hosting for Elderly Guests at MAKÜ Campus

Within the scope of the Ünides Project conducted by Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Department of Gerontology, elderly individuals residing in Büğdüz village were hosted on the university campus on May 13, 2025. The project aims to encourage the active participation of elderly individuals in social life, strengthen intergenerational interaction, and increase social awareness.

During the event, guests were given a tour of the university campus and provided with comprehensive information about academic, cultural, and social areas. Participants had the opportunity to examine student living areas and various university units on-site. Additionally, the sports complexes within the MAKÜ Faculty of Sports Sciences were introduced by Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Mehmet Nalbant.

As part of the visit program, a live music performance was presented by the MAKÜ Turkish Music State Conservatory Ensemble and students.

Later in the day, during the social program organized within the campus, participants were hosted in a friendly environment. At the event where various refreshments were offered, enjoyable time was spent accompanied by music.

The program was carried out under the coordination of Gerontology Department Head Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sevinç Sütlü, project consultant Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Nurvet Büyükyörük, and faculty members Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ebru Akbaş and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kerime Öğüt Düzen.

Gerontology Department Head Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sevinç Sütlü made the following remarks regarding the event:

“With this project carried out in line with our university's mission of serving the community, it is aimed to support the participation of elderly individuals in social life and to develop awareness of aging among our students. Hosting our guests on our campus and bringing them together with young people is extremely valuable both for them and for our university. We aim to ensure the sustainability of such events.”

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University Department of Gerontology will continue to implement projects that support the active participation of elderly individuals in social life and strengthen intergenerational solidarity.