AEGEAN AGRICULTURE WILL GAIN VALUE WITH IUE

Prof. Dr. Nazan Turhan, Dean of Faculty of Agricultural Technology and Food Sciences, stated that problems were faced in efficient and proper processing of the unique products of Aegean Region, and engineers equipped with in-depth technical knowledge would solve the problem for food enterprises. Prof. Dr. Turhan also stated that the curriculum would not only involve engineering courses, but food processing, preserving, packaging, and storing as well. She said, “Enterprises are sending their products abroad. They get processed and packaged there only to be resold to us. We headed out to train qualified engineers to turn this system around.”

Prof. Dr. Turhan, pointed out that they aimed to pave the way for companies that turned products into commercial products rather than the ones providing agricultural raw materials to foreign countries.  She mentioned that the education would cover all stages; starting from the minute the food entered the factory until it reached the hands of the customer. The curriculum would include product based education such as figs, olives, and grapes. Prof. Dr. Turhan said:

“This sector is not in its deserved place due to insufficient food processing that is not based on new technology in our country.   Presenting the food in best way possible will also increase the export. Our students will learn two foreign languages. They will also have the opportunity to receive on-sight education thanks to the city having a prosperous food industry. There are a total of 5 thousand 232 enterprises dealing with agribusiness that are registered with Izmir Chamber of Commerce. Students will get applied training both in laboratories and in field. They will promote Aegean Region products worldwide.”