BBGNight-TR · Science & Future Night: Engaging Researchers and Citizens in Climate, Health and Digital Transitions in Türkiye

BBGNight-TR – Science & Future Night: Engaging Researchers and Citizens in Climate, Health and Digital Transitions in Türkiye is a nationwide initiative designed to bring science closer to society by transforming everyday environments into interactive spaces of discovery. The project aims to strengthen public trust in science, promote sustainable lifestyles, and inspire young people to pursue research careers through direct engagement with researchers.Coordinated by Yıldız Technical University (YTU), in collaboration with Istanbul Technical University (ITU), Gazi University, and the Ministry of National Education (MoNE), the project will establish two main hubs in Istanbul and Ankara, supported by a nationwide network of schools and digital participation tools. Activities will include European Researchers’ Night events, Researchers at Schools sessions, citizen science campaigns, science cafés, exhibitions, and interactive demonstrations addressing climate resilience, health awareness, and digital transformation.Over a period of 24 months, BBGNight-TR will engage at least 30,000 citizens onsite and reach more than 1,000,000 people online. The project will implement a minimum of 200 Researchers at Schools sessions in 80 schools, reaching over 25,000 students. In addition, at least 300 researchers will actively participate in outreach, training, and public engagement activities, with a strong emphasis on gender balance and inclusiveness.The project integrates citizen science, STEAM education, and digital communication through a bilingual (Turkish/English) digital platform, ensuring accessibility, open science principles, and long-term sustainability. Special attention will be given to low-opportunity and rural communities, supported by inclusive formats such as captioning, sign language interpretation, and barrier-free venues.By linking research with everyday life, BBGNight-TR will highlight the contribution of science to the European Green Deal, the Digital Decade, and EU Missions on Climate Adaptation and Health, strengthening Türkiye’s role in the European Research Area and fostering a culture of curiosity, participation, and evidence-based thinking.