- 06 May 2025
Within the framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week, a literary discussion was held at Baku Eurasian University (BAAU) on the novel “The Sea Crossed Fisherman” (Deniz Küstü) by renowned Turkish author Yashar Kemal. The event, organized by the Department of Azerbaijani and World Literature of the Faculty of Philology, explored key themes related to SDG 14: Life Below Water, with a special emphasis on the protection of marine ecosystems and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
In her opening address, Professor Elmira Mammadova-Kekech, Head of the Department of Azerbaijani and World Literature, highlighted the novel’s powerful portrayal of ocean degradation, emphasizing the urgency to conserve marine life, protect natural habitats, and raise awareness about the impact of pollution on marine species and biodiverse ecosystems. She called on students to develop a strong sense of environmental responsibility and ocean literacy.
As part of the program, Dr. Aytan Abbasova, a lecturer from the department, delivered a presentation providing an in-depth analysis of global ecological crises, their causes, and far-reaching effects. She drew particular attention to hydrosphere pollution and the critical challenges faced by marine ecosystems. She pointed out the role of literature in educating society about the dangers of overfishing, maritime waste, and the decline of traditional use of ocean resources.
The event was followed by a focused discussion on The Sea Crossed Fisherman, a seminal work by Yashar Kemal, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century Turkish literature. The conversation explored the novel’s engagement with ecological issues through a literary lens. Participants explored how the novel addresses environmental injustice and the destruction of marine ecosystems caused by human exploitation, industrialization, and neglect of sustainable maritime practices.
In line with the event’s theme, second-year students from the Azerbaijani Language and Literature program of the Faculty of Philology presented critical analyses examining the artistic representation of environmental degradation in the novel.
Following the student presentations, Associate Professor Zamina Rustambayli, Head of the Department of Theoretical Linguistics and Turkic Languages, delivered the closing remarks. In her address, she underscored the severe consequences of ecological neglect, drawing attention to the environmental themes explored in Yashar Kemal’s novel The Sea-Crossed Fisherman. She highlighted the importance of literary engagement as a means to raise awareness about environmental degradation. Dr. Rustambayli concluded by encouraging students to adopt a more conscientious and responsible attitude toward nature, emphasizing the role of youth in shaping a sustainable future.
At the conclusion of the event, certificates of appreciation were awarded to the active participants and speakers.
