The “Mayor-Student Meeting” event was held on May 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with the participation of Bafra Mayor, Mr. Hamit Kılıç. During the program, moderated by the Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, Prof. Dr. Yetkin Bulut, Mayor Kılıç listened carefully to the university students' problems, requests, and suggestions, offering sincere explanations regarding potential solutions.
Ongoing Projects and Festival Invitation
Mr. Kılıç began his speech by providing information about the "Bafra Local Cuisine" book, the preparation of which has started in cooperation with the Faculty of Tourism, and discussed other ongoing projects. He touched upon the content of the 6th International Kapıkaya Nature Sports and Culture Festival, set to be organized this year, and invited all attendees to the festival. Providing an update on the Millet Garden (National Park), which is planned to be completed in June-July, Mayor Kılıç emphasized that the social amenities to be offered in this area will significantly contribute to the social life of the Bafra people.
Student Concerns and Tourism Suggestions
The Dean of the Faculty of Tourism and the Mayor of Bafra then gave the floor to the students to hear their concerns. Students raised issues such as:
Transportation problems
Lack of social areas
Inadequate street lighting
Missing bus stops
Need for pedestrian crossings on some roads
Mayor Kılıç stated that notes were taken on all these issues and that necessary work would be initiated as soon as possible. Students also shared suggestions on what could be done in Bafra from a tourism professional's perspective, including lighting the Çetinkaya Bridge and developing the riverbanks. Mayor Kılıç confirmed that efforts to connect Bafra to the sea and arrange the river surroundings are currently ongoing, and the bridge lighting could be re-evaluated.
Mayor Kılıç’s Message to the Youth
Expressing a vision of a Bafra shaped by the energy of young people within the scope of the “Century of the Youth” vision, Mayor Kılıç emphasized the importance of strong communication with young people:
“Being with young people, listening to their thoughts, and solving their problems is the foundation of building our future. Every idea from the youth is valuable to us as we carry Bafra into tomorrow... We are determined to manage Bafra by talking together, using common sense. I thank all my young friends who shared their opinions with us and wish them success.”
Mayor Kılıç also added that they would support all efforts that contribute to the professional and academic development of the Faculty of Tourism students.
The event concluded with a commemorative photo taken with the university students and ice cream treats offered by the Bafra Municipality.
