The first Youth Participation Project supported under the European Union Erasmus+ Programme 2021–2027 period continues successfully under the leadership of Mardin Artuklu University.

The second implementation activity of the project, titled “The Water You Save Is Your Future. Act Before It’s Too Late!”, initiated by Mardin Artuklu University, was held at Hatay Mustafa Kemal University between December 15-18, 2025.

The project, which aims to raise awareness among young people about global issues such as environmental sustainability, climate change, and water stress, and to encourage them to take an active role in decision-making processes, continues to be implemented under the coordination of Mardin Artuklu University, in partnership with Fırat University, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, and the Mardin Governorship.

The opening ceremony of the Hatay leg of the project, jointly supported by the European Union and the Turkish National Agency, was attended by Mardin Artuklu University Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Reşit Yıldız, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ersin Can, academics, youth workers, and students. In the speeches given at the opening, the pioneering role of Mardin Artuklu University in youth work and environmentally focused projects was emphasized.

Mardin Artuklu University Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Reşit Yıldız, in his speech within the scope of the project, stated:

“It is among the most fundamental responsibilities of universities to ensure that young people have a voice in areas concerning the common future of humanity, such as environmental sustainability and the climate crisis. With this project, which we are leading as Mardin Artuklu University, we are not only raising awareness among our youth but also empowering them as individuals who actively participate in decision-making processes. We believe that this awareness campaign for the protection of water resources will spread to society through young people and create a lasting impact.”

The project is being led by Lecturer [Name] on behalf of Mardin Artuklu University. Hanife Yeşilyurt took charge of the project, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sonyel Oflazoğlu Dora, the project decision-maker and trainer, along with the project team and youth leaders, carried out the implementation process. The project aimed to train students as "Water and Environment Ambassadors" and increase social awareness through peer education.

During the implementation in Hatay, environmental awareness was strengthened through workshops, information sessions, field applications, and documentary screenings.

It was stated that the final implementation activity and final summit of the project, conducted under the theme of "Environment and Climate," will be held in Mardin, hosted by Mardin Artuklu University.