Atatürk University and Turkish Red Crescent Collaborate on Nutrition Service Accreditation

Today, July 13, 2026, Atatürk University in Erzurum witnessed a major step toward enhancing student health and well-being. During an official ceremony at the Rectorate, a cooperation protocol regarding "Nutrition Service Quality and Accreditation" was signed between Atatürk University and the Turkish Red Crescent. This agreement, signed by Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu and Dr. Hüseyin Bekmez, President of the Red Crescent Erzurum Branch, marks the beginning of a new chapter in scientific and executive cooperation [1][3].

Enhancing Health and Food Safety Standards The primary goal of this protocol is to bring the university's nutrition services to national and international standards. Under this agreement, Turkish Red Crescent experts will rigorously evaluate food production, storage, and service processes in university cafeterias and kitchens. Units that successfully pass strict hygiene, nutritional quality, and food safety criteria will receive the "Red Crescent Nutrition Accreditation Certificate" [2]. This initiative not only guarantees the quality of meals but also increases the trust of students and staff in the university's nutrition system.

Specialized Training and Nutrition Management in Crisis Situations A significant part of this collaboration focuses on human resource training. Atatürk University and the Red Crescent will organize joint training programs for kitchen and service personnel in areas such as food safety, waste management, and modern hygiene protocols [1]. Furthermore, the protocol includes strengthening coordination for nutrition management during emergencies and natural disasters. Given Erzurum's strategic location, this cooperation allows the Red Crescent to utilize the university's logistical and scientific capacities to rapidly organize regional nutrition services in the event of a crisis [2][3].

Vision: A Leading University in Health and Quality During the ceremony, Prof. Hacımüftüoğlu emphasized that universities are not just scientific centers but are also responsible for providing a healthy and safe environment for student life. He noted that this collaboration with the Turkish Red Crescent, one of the world's most prestigious humanitarian organizations, helps Atatürk University become a national model in welfare services [3]. This strategic partnership demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to social responsibility and the improvement of quality of life in academic settings.