A symposium titled “The Journey of Neurosurgery and Neuroscience from Past to Present: The First Touch” was held at the ASÜ Conference Hall, organized by the Neuroscience Society of Aksaray University (ASÜ) Faculty of Medicine. The event was attended by ASÜ Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Ömer Köse, Vice Deans of the Faculty of Medicine Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Erdal and Dr. Deniz Özkan, faculty members Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasan Şimşek, Dr. Oruç Şahin, and Dr. Fatih Berktaş, along with guest lecturers and medical students from various cities.

The First Brain Surgery in History Was Performed at Aşıklı Höyük

In his opening speech, Prof. Dr. Ömer Köse emphasized the significance of the symposium as a milestone in neurosurgery. He stated that the theme “The First Touch” aimed to draw inspiration from the courage of the past while illuminating the hopeful potential of the future:
*“The first brain surgery performed at Aşıklı Höyük stands as a testament to humanity’s enduring effort to heal. This journey, from humble beginnings to today’s high-tech operating rooms, reflects our relentless pursuit of progress. I wholeheartedly congratulate the students who organized this meaningful event despite limited resources and their dedicated advisors.”*

Aksaray Holds a Significant Place in Medical History

Dr. Oruç Şahin, Faculty Member and Advisor Coordinator of the Neuroscience Society, highlighted the symposium’s importance for both ASÜ and scientific research. He noted:
“This symposium serves not only as a platform for knowledge exchange but also as a foundation for future innovative research. As the gateway to Cappadocia, Aksaray has hosted pivotal moments in medical history. The fact that one of the world’s earliest known brain surgeries took place here underscores the city’s scientific legacy. As a university, we aim to carry this unique heritage into the future.”

"We Integrate Technological Innovations into Education"

Dr. Şahin also addressed the faculty’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge advancements into medical training:
“Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping solutions for brain and nervous system research. These developments are transforming not only diagnostics but also treatment methods. While each breakthrough opens new doors of hope, it also brings ethical considerations. Today’s symposium aims to inspire future physicians with this evolving landscape.”

"We Organized a Symposium and Launched Our Journal"

Gülay Deniz Purlu, President of the ASÜ Neuroscience Society, shared that the society, established in September 2024, had quickly achieved a major milestone:
“Before forming this society, we were students pursuing individual paths. Through collaboration, we discovered our collective potential. With tireless effort, we not only organized this symposium but also published our first journal. This event was a pivotal opportunity to turn our dreams into reality.”

Keynote Presentations

Following the opening remarks, the symposium featured lectures by:

• Turgay Karakaş, Aerospace Engineer and Astronomer (TÜBİTAK): "Awareness of Cerebral Palsy: Finding Possibility Within Impossibility"

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abuzer Güngör (Istinye University): "Modern Concepts in Neurosurgery: Where Past Meets Future"

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emrah Çeltikçi (Gazi University): "Reading the Brain with AI: The Turkish Brain Project"

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Barış Küçükyürük (Cerrahpaşa University): "A Lifelong Journey: Neurosurgery Training"

ASÜ faculty members Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasan Şimşek, Dr. Oruç Şahin, Dr. Fırat Yıldız, and Uzm. Dr. Şeyma Yavuz also delivered presentations. The event concluded with a piano recital and the distribution of certificates and plaques to participants.