Former Minister of Youth and Sports and AK Party Izmir Deputy Dr. came together with representatives of public institutions, universities and non-governmental organizations at the meeting hosted by Izmir Democracy University. Mehmet Muharrem Kasapoğlu made evaluations about the education, youth and social life of Izmir.
THE EFFECT OF THE STUDIES SHOULD BE MEASURED, TARGETS SHOULD BE TRANSFORMED INTO CONCRETE STEPS
Stating that meetings are important not only to come together and exchange ideas, but also to evaluate the efficiency of the work carried out so far and to determine the goals of the next period, Kasapoğlu said that plans, projects and steps taken should be reviewed regularly.
Stating that in order for the work to become more efficient, the real picture should be seen, self-criticism should be made when necessary and new steps should be taken in line with correct determinations, Kasapoğlu pointed out that institutions and organizations aiming for the future should not be content with only what was done in the past.
Kasapoğlu thanked those who contributed to bringing the platform to this day in Izmir and stated that the participation of representatives of 91 different institutions in the meeting created an important basis for unity.
CIVIL SOCIETY IS THE POWER OF FIGHTING SOCIAL PROBLEMS ON THE FIELD
Stating that the social structure, family relations, behavioral patterns and lifestyles are changing, Kasapoğlu emphasized that a more dynamic and prepared working approach is needed against this change. Stating that preventive steps should be taken before the problems grow and become chronic, Kasapoğlu expressed the importance of presenting this approach not only in discourse but also through studies in the field.
Stating that state institutions have responsibilities and authorities, but non-governmental organizations also have important duties in strengthening social processes, Kasapoğlu described non-governmental organizations as "capillaries that reinforce the processes". He noted that every association, foundation and individual is a part of this responsibility.
Stating that Izmir requires a comprehensive study with its 30 districts and different demographic structure, Kasapoğlu pointed out the importance of public institutions, education community, imam hatip schools, vocational schools, universities and non-governmental organizations acting in coordination.
SPORTS ARE A POWERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO FIGHT ADDICTION
Stating that there is a strong infrastructure in the field of youth and sports in 30 districts of Izmir, Kasapoğlu said that these opportunities alone are not sufficient and that a coordination approach is needed to ensure effective and efficient use of the existing infrastructure.
Drawing attention to the role of sports in combating social problems, Kasapoğlu said, "Sports is a very powerful instrument in combating all evil." he said. He emphasized that sports should be considered as a preventive and supportive tool in many areas, from technology and substance addiction to smoking, from violence to communication problems.
Kasapoğlu stated that in addition to investments in youth and sports, the knowledge and experience of non-governmental organizations in the field should be included in this struggle and expressed the importance of developing a common methodology for more efficient use of strong infrastructure.
TECHNOLOGY ADDICTION SHOULD BE ONE OF THE PRIORITY AREAS OF STRUGGLE
Pointing out that addiction types can trigger each other, Kasapoğlu said that the effect of technology addiction that paves the way for other addictions should not be ignored. Stating that technology addiction should be addressed as a priority in the fight agenda, Kasapoğlu emphasized the importance of taking the necessary measures before the problems become chronic.
Referring to the widespread opportunities that mosques and religious officials have in strengthening social solidarity, Kasapoğlu stated that mosques should be transformed into centers of life. In this regard, he noted that joint work by public institutions and non-governmental organizations will make significant contributions to social life.
IZMIR'S ROAD MAP WILL BE DETERMINED BY COMMON WISE
Stating that he sees the meetings as family gatherings, Kasapoğlu said that in such organizations, the main say should belong to the representatives of the institutions and organizations working in the field. He pointed out the importance of hearing directly from the participants about Izmir's current situation, strengths and shortcomings in the fields of education, investment, social life and civil society.
Kasapoğlu stated that he wanted to continue contributing to the work of the platform in the future, as well as the work carried out in previous periods, and called for strengthening one-on-one communication with the participants.
Stating that the road map and working method to be followed for Izmir will be shaped in line with the opinions, suggestions and demands to be expressed at the meeting, Kasapoğlu noted that the deficiencies will be identified and the necessary steps will be taken with a common understanding.
