Titled "From Scientific Curiosity to Social Benefit: The Responsibility of Being a University Student," Hacımüftüoğlu explained the importance for students to spend their educational lives by asking questions, conducting research, and putting what they learn into practice. Addressing young people studying across various disciplines, Hacımüftüoğlu drew attention to the fact that the habit of conducting scientific work can be developed right from the early years of undergraduate education.
“Scientific curiosity turns into research questions”
Advising students to question the sources of the information they read and the conditions under which it was produced, Hacımüftüoğlu noted that comparing different viewpoints and critically evaluating existing explanations are fundamental elements of academic development.
“The contribution of different disciplines broadens solution possibilities”
He explained that research in the field of health could have aspects related to technology, communication, and social behavior, and similarly, issues in environment, education, and culture can be addressed by utilizing diverse knowledge and methods. He emphasized the importance of skills such as listening to one another, sharing responsibilities, and acting toward a common goal in teamwork.
Evaluating KTMU's structure, which brings together students from different countries within this framework, Hacımüftüoğlu stated that young people getting to know different languages and cultures can enhance their collaborative work experiences. He expressed that academic relationships established during university years can lay the groundwork for future research and professional collaborations.
“Scientific production gains value with ethical responsibility”
Focusing on academic honesty and the responsibilities arising from the use of information, Hacımüftüoğlu stated that properly citing sources, respecting the labor of others, and conveying research results accurately form the foundation of scientific trust.
Expressing that digital tools facilitate access to information and work processes, Hacımüftüoğlu emphasized that students bear the responsibility of verifying the information they use and forming their own evaluations. He touched upon the importance of maintaining active participation in the learning process while utilizing technology.
Students can start research with small projects
Suggesting that students set achievable goals from the very first year of their university lives, Hacımüftüoğlu stated that regular reading on a topic of interest and seeking guidance from faculty members are important steps to begin research.
He noted that activities such as defining a problem, examining relevant sources, and preparing a small project proposal can develop students' research skills. He recorded that student communities, scientific events, and team projects also offer opportunities to gain experience in this process.