“Kick-Off Meeting of the OLIVER Project Successfully Held”
On July 11, 2023, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University hosted a dynamic kick-off meeting for the Erasmus+ KA210 project titled “University-Industry Cooperation for Production of High Quality Olive.” The event brought together key stakeholders and experts to initiate collaboration and outline the project’s objectives.
The morning session, marked by insightful opening speeches, commenced with addresses from esteemed figures including Prof. Dr. Ahmet Evren Erginal, representing Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, and Alper Altınok from the Ezine Food Specialization Organized Industrial Zone. Güray Yüksel, Mayor of Ezine, also delivered remarks underscoring the local commitment to the project. The session culminated in a keynote speech by Prof. Dr. R. Cüneyt Erenoğlu, Rector of Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, emphasizing the university’s role in fostering university-industry partnerships.
Following a networking lunch, the afternoon session focused on project presentations during which international perspectives were shared. Dr. Vivina Carreira from the Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra provided insights into the olive sector in Portugal, highlighting current challenges and opportunities. Prof. Dr. Murat Şeker from Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University then discussed the Turkish olive industry, outlining similar themes and strategic directions. Prof. Dr. Yasemin Kavdır concluded the session with a presentation on olive waste management and recycling strategies.
After a productive coffee break, participants engaged in a focus group meeting at the Ezine Food Specialization Organized Industrial Zone. This session was dedicated to planning project outputs, defining team responsibilities, and coordinating financial aspects including budget usage and billing. The discussions also addressed updates to the project’s web page and technical support requirements.
The day concluded with a convivial dinner, fostering further networking and informal discussions among participants. Technical visits were made on July 12, 2023, included tours of Ezine and Geyikli municipalities, olive growing cooperatives, and olive oil factories. The program continued on July 13, 2023, with social events featuring an excursion to the ancient city of Troia and a visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical Site Presidency.
This kick-off meeting not only set the stage for collaborative efforts in enhancing olive production but also established a framework for ongoing dialogue and partnership development among all stakeholders involved.
