August 27, 2026
The Agricultural Technology Cluster (TÜME) organized its “TÜME Agriculture Route Program” in Gökçeada, a district of Çanakkale, bringing together young agricultural producers, technology leaders and prominent figures to discuss the future of farming and sustainable production.
The event, held by the seaside in the hometown of national athlete and freediving world record holder Şahika Ercümen, featured a meeting between Ercümen, TÜME Chairman Abdulkadir Karagöz and young people engaged in agricultural production on the island. The discussions focused on protecting natural resources, sustainable production and environmental awareness.
“Production and Producers Are Critical”
Karagöz said agriculture has remained a fundamental part of human life throughout history, while emphasizing that production and sustainability are the most important issues in agriculture.
He noted that the average age of Türkiye’s agricultural producers is approaching 60, arguing that young people need to be encouraged to become active participants in agricultural production.
Karagöz also highlighted the growing importance of food security, pointing to disruptions in supply chains during the pandemic and the use of food as a strategic tool during wars. He said global trends have shifted from globalization toward more protectionist approaches, making domestic production increasingly important.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Farming
Karagöz said Türkiye needs a new model that combines young farmers, technology and economies of scale.
He argued that agriculture and livestock farming should move beyond conventional mechanization toward artificial intelligence-powered autonomous systems.
“Let’s talk about autonomous systems powered by artificial intelligence rather than mechanization in agriculture and livestock farming, support our young people and help them achieve scale.”
According to Karagöz, the technological capabilities developed in Türkiye’s defense industry can also be applied to civilian sectors, particularly agriculture and livestock farming. He cited technologies such as robotic milking, image processing, animal health chips, climate control and automation systems as examples of how advanced technology is already transforming farming.
TÜME Donates AI-Based Autonomous Farms to 10 Universities
Karagöz said TÜME has provided AI-based autonomous farms to 10 universities under a protocol signed with the Council of Higher Education (YÖK).
The facilities are intended to allow young researchers and academics to develop technologies addressing challenges in agriculture and livestock farming.
Karagöz said TÜME wants to work with producers interested in adopting new technologies and develop domestic solutions, with the goal of reducing Türkiye’s dependence on foreign sources for agricultural data and food technologies.
He also noted that Türkiye’s agricultural output had increased from around $25 billion to $75 billion over the past 20 years, emphasizing the need to develop a model capable of sustaining agricultural production over the next two decades.
Ercümen Highlights Access to Reliable Food
Ercümen, who is also a dietitian, said access to reliable and healthy food has become increasingly difficult.
She emphasized the importance of healthy nutrition and exercise as preventive health measures, adding that everything begins with having the courage to pursue ambitious goals.
Ercümen said she has exceeded 110 meters during training and expressed hope of attempting another world record in 2027 if she receives the necessary support.
The program concluded with Karagöz and Ercümen answering questions from participants, followed by a gift presentation and a photo session.
Gökçeada District Governor Osman Acar, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Rector Prof. Dr. Cüneyt Erenoğlu, young agricultural producers and local residents also attended the event.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök