The Afyon Kocatepe University (AKU) Science, Technology, Art, and Sports Festival 2025 (AKÜFEST’25) kicked off with the participation of Dr. Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır, Chairperson of the Board of the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation). During the conference titled "Türkiye’s Century of Technology," Dr. Hıdır highlighted the "revolution of self-confidence" sparked by TEKNOFEST in the youth and drew attention to the foundation's vision that transcends borders. Held at the Afyon Kocatepe University Atatürk Congress Center, the conference was attended by AKU Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Karakaş, university administration, T3 Foundation provincial representatives, academics, and numerous students. “Our goal is to restore the self-confidence our youth have lost” In her speech, referring to the scientific heritage of the Turkish-Islamic civilization, Dr. Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır emphasized the importance of following in the footsteps of pioneers such as Al-Jazari, Ibn al-Haytham, and Al-Khwarizmi. Touching upon the unfinished stories of figures like Vecihi Hürkuş and Nuri Demirağ during the Republican era, Hıdır noted: “Interruptions experienced in our history led to a lack of self-confidence in society. Once a nation that produced technology, we transformed into a society that merely consumes it. As the T3 Foundation, our most fundamental goal is to restore this self-confidence in our youth. If we can achieve this mental transformation, we can realize scientific and technological breakthroughs that will change the destiny not only of our country but also of friendly and brotherly regions.” “TEKNOFEST is a revolution of self-confidence” Stating that TEKNOFEST is not just a festival but a massive organization where young people learn teamwork and develop projects for the benefit of humanity, Dr. Hıdır described the event as a "revolution of self-confidence." Highlighting that the T3 Foundation’s activities have expanded beyond Türkiye's borders, Hıdır said: “Our operations continue in six countries, primarily in the Balkans, Central Asia, and the Gulf Region, through our Science Centers and DENEYAP Makers Labs. We believe that you, our precious youth, are the power that will transform the world.” Following the record-breaking TEKNOFEST in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which hosted over 225,000 visitors, the message was conveyed that the route will now turn back to Istanbul and Anatolia.