Academics, administrative staff, and students from Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Faculty of Theology created a 'Gaza Memorial Forest' in the empty area at the back of the faculty campus. The event, organized to draw attention to the humanitarian drama that has been ongoing in Gaza for about two years, saw students and academics planting saplings to convey a message of solidarity.
Speaking at the program, Dean of the Faculty of Theology Prof. Dr. Yasin Pişgin stated that the event was not just an activity of planting trees, but also a symbol of a moral and humanitarian stance. Emphasizing that humanity should not remain silent against oppression, Prof. Dr. Pişgin said that injustice occurring anywhere in the world is a common issue for all humanity.
In his speech, Dean Pişgin provided examples from the Qur'an and the understanding of “improving the earth” in Islamic thought, expressing that people are responsible not only for their own lives but also for their surroundings and the injustices experienced. Stating that standing by the oppressed, regardless of their identity, is a moral duty, Dean Pişgin noted that each sapling planted carries a symbol of justice, compassion, and humanity.
Prof. Dr. Pişgin also called on students, stating that the saplings planted do not belong only to today, saying, “Every tree you plant today is your moral legacy. Take care of them, water them, and contribute to their growth. Entrust your trees to your fellow students who continue their education when you graduate.”
Prof. Dr. Ömer Tekşen, Vice Rector, who spoke at the event, expressed that the events happening in Gaza have caused deep sorrow worldwide, stating that as a university, they condemn inhumane attacks. Prof. Dr. Tekşen emphasized that the event, led by the Faculty of Theology, is important in terms of social awareness, stating that small steps can be the beginning of great sensitivities.
Prof. Dr. Tekşen thanked the students, academics, and administrative staff who contributed to the organization.
At the end of the program, saplings were planted in the memorial forest by academics, administrative staff, and students. The university administration stated that the goal is to keep the created forest alive as both an environmental and moral memory area in the coming years.
