Alanya’s traditional flavors showcased in Bahamas

Associate professor Esra Mankan, head of the Department of Gastronomy and Culinary Arts at Alanya University, represented the university on the international stage as part of the Erasmus program in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas.

During the K171 Erasmus project, Mankan introduced the cultural richness and local cuisine of Alanya, highlighting the region’s unique flavors and traditions. Over a week, she delivered seminars and lectures on “Healthy Cuisine,” “Turkish Cuisine,” “Gastronomy Trends,” “The Slow Food Movement,” and “Eating Habits,” with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

Promoting Alanya’s culinary heritage

In this international educational program, Mankan focused on Alanya’s rich cultural heritage and local culinary traditions. She provided participants with insights into the gastronomy culture of the region, using the platform to introduce Alanya’s touristic potential.

Through the Erasmus program, Mankan had the chance to teach at the University of The Bahamas, highlighting the value of such opportunities.

Highlighting Alanya University’s commitment to international education, Mankan noted that these programs act as a bridge for students and academic staff, offering them global exposure. She also emphasized the significance of her lectures and seminars, which focused on sustainability and healthy, sustainable food production and consumption.

Expanding international horizons

Mankan shared her thoughts on the expanding horizons offered by the Erasmus program, which now includes destinations like the Maldives, Seychelles, The Bahamas, Ecuador, South Africa, Kenya, and Cambodia. She expressed excitement about the broader international education and research opportunities available to Alanya University students and staff.

Mankan also reflected on the cultural and professional benefits of her international assignment, saying, “These new destinations provide our university with extended global education and research opportunities.”

‘Our vision: Globalization in education’

Mankan emphasized the university’s focus on global education: “These experiences contribute significantly to our professional careers and the international prestige of our university.

At Alanya University, we place great importance on Erasmus education programs, which accelerate our pace of globalization in education. Our students have the opportunity to study in countries like Prague, Italy, Croatia, and Poland, while our academic staff can participate in short-term teaching and learning programs to share their knowledge and experiences internationally.”

Mankan expressed her gratitude to University rector Mesut Guner, program coordinators Anna Maria Bielecka and Alicja Maria Dzienis, The University of The Bahamas dean professor Mario Adderley, GMS Department Chair professor Donna Williams, chef Eldred Saunders, chef Addiema Farrington, chef Devain Maycook, and all the gastronomy students for their warm hospitality.