- 10 Apr 2025
A lecture on “Ecology and Children’s Literature” was organized by the Department of Azerbaijani and World Literature at Baku Eurasian University (BAAU). In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education), the event was attended by academic and administrative staff members, as well as students from the Faculty of Philology.
Professor Elmira Məmmədova-Kekeç, Head of BAAU’s Department of Azerbaijani and World Literature, stated in her speech that the purpose of the event was to promote ecological awareness among young people, enhance mental well-being through engagement with meaningful literature, and emphasize the importance of incorporating environmental themes and SDG-aligned content into children’s education.
Following the opening remarks, Senior Lecturer Günel Şıxaliyeva delivered a presentation. During the presentation, it was emphasized that works by the well-known Turkish children’s author Elçin Kuzucu aim to instill ecological consciousness in children, fostering holistic development and responsible attitudes toward the environment. Kuzucu’s books, such as Ocean Adventure, Mechanical Trees, and Ecological Diamond Guardians, convey strong messages about caring for nature and protecting the environment. The lecturer also highlighted that the heroes in these stories use scientific and technological innovations to protect nature while emphasizing values such as friendship, collaboration, and humanity, supporting both cognitive and social well-being.
G. Şıxaliyeva stressed that E. Kuzucu’s stories combine ecological issues with technological advancement, teaching children the importance of preserving nature and ensuring a sustainable, healthy, and livable future. It was also noted that in The Biotechnological Diary of Discoveries in the Dark, special attention is given to themes of friendship, cooperation, and social responsibility, promoting positive mental health and community engagement.
After the presentation, participants asked questions and engaged in an interactive discussion, reinforcing active learning and educational well-being.
It should be noted that the lecture was held in support of the university’s social responsibility initiatives and in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to both health, well-being, and quality education for students and staff alike.
