Goethe Institute Explores Karaman and Mut
- Written by Portal Editor
Goethe Institute - During our visits to the governors of Karaman and Mut to prepare for the XC Paragliding event, we were repeatedly asked about the further development of cultural exchange programs with European countries in these emerging provinces.
We then forwarded these inquiries to the director of the Goethe Institute Izmir, Mr. Roland Schmidt, and discussed the topic in detail. Mr. Schmidt spontaneously agreed to travel to Karaman and Mut for a day.
Despite their busy schedules, we were able to find a mutually convenient time, which, while demanding, was feasible.
Early Tuesday morning, Mr. Schmidt arrived in Konya on the Goethe Institute Izmir's intercity bus, where we picked him up in the governor of Karaman's conference bus.
From there, we went directly to the office of Governor Süleyman Karaman, who was expecting us promptly at 10:00 a.m. for an initial meeting with tea and some sweets.
After exchanging the usual greetings, we quickly got down to business.
Mr. Schmidt began by explaining the work and function of the Goethe-Institute, highlighting its branches in many countries around the world, and also presenting figures on the number of participants in the various programs.
He emphasized that the teaching of the German language was of particular importance to the Goethe-Institute, a point that sparked the special interest of the Governor and his assistants.
After exchanging the usual greetings, Mr. Schmidt began by describing the work and function of the Goethe-Institute, highlighting its branches in many countries around the world and also providing figures on the number of participants in the various programs. The conversation quickly turned to the "Almanca Yollarda" project (which we have reported on extensively), currently in the preparation phase for this year's tour. A side trip to Karaman might also be possible as a first step towards cultural exchange.
There is also great interest in an exchange program for Master's students from the local university who would like to spend time in Germany. Partnerships with schools are also being pursued, Governor Süleyman Karaman explained in detail.
The development of sustainable tourism, which was still in its infancy and received its first significant boost with the paragliding event in 2010, is particularly important for Karaman. This includes a project currently in the planning phase that will certainly attract considerable interest from nature enthusiasts: the establishment of a birdwatching observatory.
Another project was also presented by the Governor's assistant, which addresses a particular aspect of the past and highlights the close ties to Germany. This makes it clear: "Wooden suitcase."
With the demand for workers in Germany, Karaman suddenly faced major problems, as around 30,000 residents moved to Germany from there alone.
Since several projects on this topic are currently being developed by the German side, there is certainly potential for progress here as well.
We immediately set off for Mut, but not before making a stop in Alahan. Mr. Schmidt was visibly impressed by the architecture of the churches and monasteries built by the Romans who had converted to Christianity.
Just a short time later, we arrived in Mut, where we went directly to see the Kaymakam Mustafa Sahin. There, too, we received a warm welcome, and after a brief initial discussion, the Kaymakam's ideas for cultural development were also addressed.
There is still almost limitless potential for open exchange between cultures. Kaymakam Mustafa Sahin also expressed great interest in new energy concepts that should focus on developing alternative energy sources.
This is particularly relevant given Mut's natural surroundings, with their vast agricultural areas for fruit and vegetable cultivation, especially plums, olives, and other fruits. During our conversation, we were able to see for ourselves the quality of the plums. The kaymakam also brought out various cheeses, which were almost completely devoured.
Since Mr. Schmidt had to be on his flight back to Istanbul at 11:00 p.m., we concluded our discussion, which had opened up many new possibilities and perspectives. We are sure there will be another meeting soon.
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