We continued to strengthen academic dialogue and intercultural understanding through the organization of the “Skopje–Shumen Panel,” held by the Department of Turkish Language Teaching at the Faculty of Education of International Balkan University. The program, moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ekrem Destanov, brought together university administrators, academics, students, and invited guests in a meaningful academic environment focused on the historical, cultural, and academic relations between Skopje and Shumen. Through this important initiative, we once again emphasized our commitment to promoting cultural awareness, preserving shared heritage, and encouraging intellectual exchange across the Balkans within the framework of higher education and regional cooperation.

During the panel, distinguished scholars and experts from their respective fields contributed valuable evaluations and perspectives on the common cultural heritage of the Balkans and the historical ties between the two cities. Doç. Dr. Nevriye Çufadar delivered a presentation titled “An Examination of Turkish Traditions That Have Survived to the Present Day in Northeastern Bulgaria,” while Doç. Dr. Menent Şukrieva discussed “The Vocabulary Related to Clothing, Ornamentation, and Household Items in Mani Performed by Bulgarian Turks.” Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Vejdi Hasan presented on “Characteristics of Bulgarian Turkish Literature,” Doç. Dr. Alpay İğci introduced the topic “Balkan Turkish and the Turkish Dialect Atlas of Türkiye,” and Doç. Dr. Seyhan Murtezan İbrahimi shared insights on “Turkish Literature in North Macedonia.” The panel created a productive platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening communication among academics, and encouraging discussions on the preservation and transmission of cultural values to future generations.

Throughout the program, the importance of strengthening academic collaboration, supporting intercultural dialogue, and enhancing regional engagement through scholarly initiatives was strongly emphasized. The active participation and interest shown by attendees reflected the growing significance of such academic and cultural gatherings within our university community and beyond. At the conclusion of the panel, certificates of appreciation were presented to the speakers in recognition of their valuable contributions and dedication to the advancement of cultural and academic cooperation. Through initiatives such as the “Skopje–Shumen Panel,” we continue to reinforce our role as an internationally oriented university that values cultural diversity, academic excellence, and meaningful regional partnerships.