PAU Brings a Meaningful Visit to Children: “We Are in Control of the Screen!”
Within the scope of the Science Café event organized by Pamukkale University (PAU) Science Communication Coordination Office, Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Zeynep Erdoğan, Coordinator of the PAU Addiction and Trauma Research Laboratory, met with students of Osman Özgür Primary School to raise awareness against screen addiction.
The event held at Osman Özgür Primary School was attended by PAU Science Communication Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bahar Türk, Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Zeynep Erdoğan, Deputy Principal Adnan Yumru, Guidance Counselor Ramazan Ayaz Öztürk, Duygu Atar from the Denizli Branch of Yeşilay, Social Services Specialist Feyza Köklüsoy from YEDAM, and Youth Commission President of Yeşilay Branch Mehmet Eryılmaz.
The event, held on March 6, focused on combating screen addiction and safe technology use. It began with an ice-breaking activity conducted by Dr. Zeynep Erdoğan using a cute ball named “Edie.” Students were asked about their favorite games and screen habits, creating enjoyable moments. Erdoğan emphasized that technology is beneficial but control should always remain with the individual, and reminded students of key rules: all screens should be turned off at least one hour before sleep, devices should be avoided during studying, breaks, and meals, and screen use should be placed in a balanced part of life.
As part of the event organized during Yeşilay Week, marking the 106th anniversary of Yeşilay, three volunteers from Yeşilay also participated. The mission and principles of Yeşilay were introduced to the students.
In interviews conducted during the event, solution-oriented messages were shared. Deputy Principal Adnan Yumru stated that screen addiction is one of the biggest problems of today and emphasized the importance of strong cooperation with families. Guidance Counselor Ramazan Ayaz Öztürk provided technical information on screen addiction and highlighted that the process can be managed with family support. It was also stated that the most effective method in combating addiction is to encourage children toward social and physical activities. Students also shared what they learned from the event during interviews.
At the end of the event, awareness bracelets with the slogan “I Am Aware of Yeşilay” were distributed to the students by the PAU Science Communication Coordination Office. This meaningful gathering, with the participation of 120 students, concluded with informative posters displayed on school walls and enthusiastic participation. The message “Controlled use, happy childhood” was left in memory.