Within the scope of the “13th International Career Days” annually organized by the Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Alumni Communication and Career Research Directorate (MIKA), Mayors of Famagusta, Iskele and Lefke participated in a panel held at EMU. Moderated by Assist. Prof. Dr. Burak Ali Çiçek, the event took place on Wednesday, 12 March 2025 at 02:30 p.m. at Mustafa Afşin Ersoy Hall. Nicosia Mayor Mehmet Harmancı, Iskele Mayor Hasan Sadıkoğlu and Lefke Mayor Aziz Kaya who are all members of EMU alumni gathered together and discussed the topic of “Equality and Social Justice” during the event which was hosted by the Famagusta Municipality Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay.
Present during the event were TRNC Member of the Parliament Teberrüken Uluçay, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Salih Katırcıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren and Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, academic staff and students.
“A Valuable Guide for Students”
In his address, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç underscored the vital role of local governments in promoting equality and social justice, emphasizing that mayors’ experiences could serve as a valuable guide for students. Prof. Dr. Kılıç pointed out that local governments are responsible for ensuring equal opportunities for all members of society, distributing resources fairly, and maintaining social justice. He highlighted that the panel provided a meaningful opportunity for students interested in municipal governance and other socially responsible fields. Expressing appreciation to all contributors, Prof. Dr. Kılıç hoped the event would be both insightful and inspiring.
Following the opening speech, students met with experienced mayors to gain insights into how equality and social justice principles are applied in local governance.
“Always Possible to Rise Again After a Fall”
Providing information on municipalism, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay shared his personal experiences with the participants. In his address to students, Dr. Uluçay spoke about the significance of forgiveness in every aspect of life, emphasizing that self-forgiveness is the first step. Dr. Uluçay pointed out that individuals should learn to forgive both themselves and others, reminding them that life is filled with ups and downs and that overcoming setbacks and standing back up is always possible.
“Lefke is the Oldest Turkish Municipality in Cyprus”
During the panel, Aziz Kaya, the Mayor of Lefke, shared with the students that he is among the first graduates of EMU and talked about his experiences after graduation. Kaya gave several recommendations to students interested in municipal governance and provided key insights from his time as mayor. Kaya pointed out that Lefke is the oldest Turkish municipality in Cyprus, discussing its historical, cultural, and governance importance. He also shared the knowledge he gained from overseeing the region's development and management.
“Being Aware and Resolute is Important”
Nicosia Turkish Municipality Mayor Mehmet Harmancı stressed that he has been advocating for justice and equality since his student days. Harmancı discussed the presence of injustice and social inequality in the country and highlighted to students the importance of being aware and resolute in tackling these issues. Harmancı provided information on Social Municipalism and underlined that justice starts with taxation. He also pointed out the need for reforms in property taxes in Northern Cyprus, stressing that this matter should be viewed through the lens of social justice.
“Persons with High Ability to Empathize Make an Impact on the Society”
In his speech, Iskele Mayor Hasan Sadıkoğlu provided information about his professional journey after graduating from EMU. Sadıkoğlu explained that municipal governance offers the opportunity to be closely involved with the public, emphasizing that this is an essential aspect of the sector. He noted that being present within the community enhances the role of a mayor and mentioned that individuals with high empathy can have a strong influence on society. Sadıkoğlu shared details about the municipality’s efforts to promote equal opportunities, ensuring they remain connected with the people. He highlighted that success in municipal governance comes from fostering strong relationships with the public and emphasized that providing effective services requires setting aside political affiliations.
At the end of the panel event, the questions of students were addressed by the panellists. Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented appreciation plaques to the moderator and panellists of the event.
