The Forensic Science Student Workshop was organized by Üsküdar University Directorate of Health, Culture, and Sports and the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club, with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports UNIDES Program. The event, held under the main theme "Science on Campus, Justice in the World," began with an opening speech by Vice Rector Prof. Sevil Atasoy. Prof. Atasoy emphasized that forensic science is not merely a technical field but carries significant responsibilities in terms of human rights and ethical values. She highlighted the importance of the workshop for young people as a means of sharing vision and building social responsibility. Prof. Nevzat Tarhan also contributed to the program with a message, stating that in societies where justice is not embraced as a core value, the powerful oppress the weak, drawing attention to the responsibility of scientists on this matter.

The event, held in the Nermin Tarhan Conference Hall at the Main Campus of Üsküdar University, was attended by Vice Rector and Head of the Department of Forensic Sciences in the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Prof. Sevil Atasoy, faculty members, and club members.

Prof. Nevzat Tarhan: “If justice is not accepted as a value, the powerful will oppress the weak”

President of Üsküdar University Psychiatrist Prof. Nevzat Tarhan participated in the Forensic Science Student Workshop, held under the main theme “Science on Campus, Justice in the World,” with a written message. His message was read by Sevim Turan, President of the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club. The message stated: “Thank you to the organizing committee for choosing such an ambitious yet absolutely rightful topic like ‘Science on Campus, Justice in the World’ and for organizing this event. Imagine a ship sailing in the middle of the sea. The workers on the lower decks need to go upstairs for basic needs like water. If their needs are not met, they will try to find a solution by drilling the ship and eventually cause it to sink. The world is like that ship. There are layers of power and wealth. The tendency to ignore the lower layers is a weakness of the upper ones. As a result, hostility toward wealth and violence arise. If justice is not accepted as a value, the powerful will oppress the weak. In the absence of a control system, everyone loses. The understanding of justice means equal rights and opportunities. Academic freedom provided by science, a culture of ethical discussion, freedom of expression, critical thinking, seeing and respecting differences as data, and the resolution of conflicts enable solutions. The understanding of justice means equal rights and opportunities. Income justice and fair distribution of resources are possible only by limiting power and eliminating the perception of impunity. What is the contribution of science? It generates knowledge and data through observation, develops hypotheses, tests them, and provides solution options. It offers accessible paths while protecting human dignity. Global justice is closely related to the fair use of global resources. If universities and scientists remain silent in the face of power, that silence and burden are enough to bring shame. It is deeply painful that universal human rights such as the right to life, education, and fair trial are not upheld in the Middle East. The silence of scientists, who are supposed to defend Western values, is a historical delusion. Everyone will suffer. As Üsküdar University, together with L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University of Kazakhstan in Astana, we published the “Manifesto of Universal Human Values and Rights” in May 2024. So far, we have collected 392 thousand signatures. This voice urgently needs to be heard. I hope it will be a successful event and contribute to the globalization of justice. Thank you.”

This message by Prof. Nevzat Tarhan was applauded by the participants.

Prof. Sevil Atasoy: “This event is an important opportunity to share a vision”

Vice Rector and Head of the Department of Forensic Sciences at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Prof. Sevil Atasoy delivered the opening speech of the workshop. Prof. Atasoy said: “This meaningful event, where we have gathered under the theme ‘Science on Campus, Justice in the World,’ is not only for the exchange of academic knowledge, but also an opportunity to share a vision, to cultivate an ideal, and to remember the transformative power of science. Forensic science is not limited to laboratory analyses, complex devices, and statistical models. This discipline aims above all to pursue truth on behalf of humanity, establish fairness, and contribute to justice. Every microscopic trace, every DNA sample, or digital data is not merely a technical finding, but part of a human story. This is what makes forensic science both special and deeply responsible.”

Prof. Atasoy emphasized that scientific research and academic production usually occur behind the protective walls of universities, but the real value of science is measured by its impact on society. She continued: “Knowledge developed on campuses can balance the scales of justice in courtrooms, form the basis of effective policies in legislatures, and promote more ethical practices in police stations. Most importantly, it can strengthen citizens’ sense of trust, transparency, and justice.”

“You are not only carriers of science but also defenders of ethical principles”

Prof. Atasoy noted that forensic science plays a critical role in illuminating systemic injustices: “You, the students present here today, are not only carriers of science but also defenders of ethical principles. The analytical thinking, objectivity, and verification habits you develop will not only guide your careers but also fulfill your social responsibilities.
Forensic science not only investigates crime, but also clarifies wrongful judgments, prejudices, and systemic injustices. To put the knowledge we produce on campus at the service of justice, we need courage, determination, and a deep sense of social responsibility.
What you learn today may one day help secure the freedom of an innocent person or shed light on the truth in a complex case. Therefore, human rights, ethical principles, and critical perspective must be considered as fundamental tools of forensic science, along with professional knowledge.”

“Forensic Science is Respect for Humanity”

Emphasizing that a true scientist must take responsibility, Prof. Sevil Atasoy stated: “Our workshop offers you not only an opportunity to gain knowledge, but also to question, to encounter different perspectives, and to reflect on your own journey. Every session, every discussion, and every question will be a new building block in the construction of a science that serves justice. Let us not forget that forensic science is not only technical knowledge, but also conscience, responsibility, and respect for human beings. A true scientist is not only someone who deals with science, but also someone who feels. Not only someone who questions, but also someone who assumes responsibility. With these feelings and thoughts, I wish that the workshop will be productive, horizon-expanding, and inspiring for all of you. I hope you will always keep your scientific curiosity, ethical stance, and passion for justice alive.”

Assoc. Prof. Soner Kızıl: “Our students’ passion for scientific production will open new paths for our field”

Advisor of the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club Assoc. Prof. Soner Kızıl spoke during the workshop. Kızıl said: “We are aware of the significant role that forensic sciences play in the establishment of justice. By coming together today through this workshop, shaped by the perspectives of young scientists, we are not only sharing academic knowledge but also demonstrating social responsibility and conscious citizenship. With the confidence I have in the scientific vision of our university and the energy of our youth, we all believe that this workshop will yield very valuable outcomes. Our students’ passion for producing science, discussing, and questioning will open new paths not only for their own development but also for our field. This event is not merely a platform for knowledge sharing, but also a valuable gathering where young people can express their ideas, exchange thoughts, and understand the social role of science more deeply. The students who will speak, present, and ask questions here today will demonstrate not only their scientific curiosity but also a future vision shaped by a strong sense of responsibility.”

Sevim Turan: “We hope every step we take on this path leaves a mark”

President of the Forensic Sciences and Criminal Justice Club at Üsküdar University, Sevim Turan, spoke within the scope of the workshop. Turan said: “Today, we have come together under the motto ‘Science on Campus, Justice in the World.’ This title is not just a theme. It is also a representation and expression of the responsibility we carry, the path we try to walk, and the values we believe in. Justice is not only our professional goal, but also the foundation of our human stance. However, we know that justice can be achieved not through feelings or assumptions, but through evidence, data, and scientific methods. With this understanding, we grow, develop, and aim to contribute under the umbrella of forensic sciences. This workshop was designed not only as a space where knowledge is shared, but also where ideas are discussed, curiosity is encouraged, and young voices are heard. While preparing this event, we did not simply organize. We thought together, decided together, and produced together. Because we know that science, justice, and our future are only possible together. Our goal and wish is to leave behind a world that is more just than today. On this path we set out with this intention, we hope that every step we take will leave a mark.”

Following the speeches, presentations were delivered

Lawyer Dr. Tanıl Başkan contributed with a presentation titled “Forensic Sciences and Law,” Assoc. Prof. Soner Kızıl with “New Psychoactive Substances,” Assoc. Prof. Murat Nihan Arslan with “Autopsy and Forensic Sciences,” and Specialist Forensic Midwife İnci Yağmur Tezbasan Arslan with “Evidence Collection Kits and International Standards in Sexual Violence Crimes.”

 

Student poster presentations were also held

Following the voting, Didem Nur Gök won first place with her project titled “Investigation of DNA Recovery After Cleaning Bloodstains on Walls Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Satin Wall Paint.”

The program concluded with a group photo session.

 

Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)