Held at the Istanbul Provincial Directorate’s conference hall, this comprehensive training program drew great interest from numerous technical experts, engineers, academics, and experienced professionals from public institutions, municipalities, universities, and related sectors. Among the participants was Asst. Prof. Volkan Öztaş from the Faculty of Fine Arts (FFA), Department of Interior Architecture and Environmental Design at Istanbul Gelişim University (IGU), who attended the event and shared his knowledge and experience.
The focus of the program was on hands-on training for the rapid, reliable, and scientifically based assessment of buildings and infrastructure following natural disasters. Participants were briefed on the procedures that technical staff should follow in potential disaster scenarios, including damage assessment, safety risk analysis, emergency response planning, evaluation of building usability, temporary housing solutions, and detailed reporting processes. Interactive discussions were also held on practical challenges that may arise during fieldwork and the strategies to be implemented in such cases, using real-life examples.
The training program not only provided participants with theoretical knowledge but also enabled them to experience techniques applicable in the field. Simulations based on real disaster scenarios once again highlighted the critical importance of coordination and accurate information flow during emergency response operations.
Officials from the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change stated that such training programs would be held regularly, with an ever-expanding participant profile. They emphasized that by including local governments, private sector representatives, and non-governmental organizations, a more comprehensive disaster preparedness network would be established. This initiative aims to strengthen institutional cooperation and public disaster awareness to build a resilient, safe, and sustainable urban environment.
We congratulate Asst. Prof. Volkan Öztaş and wish him continued success.
