TEKNOFEST discussions cover data privacy and 2028 hosting bids

At the TEKNOFEST aviation, space, and technology festival held at Şanlıurfa GAP Airport, the President of the Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK), Bilir, discussed digital privacy rights. Bilir noted that individuals have a natural right to remove or hide accurate but outdated personal information from digital channels and search engines. He highlighted that Google has established a specific process for Turkey, allowing users to request the removal of information from search indexes, with a requirement for the company to provide notification regarding the request within 30 days.

Separately, Erzurum is positioning itself as a candidate to host TEKNOFEST 2028. The Erzurum Development Foundation (ER-VAK) has called for the city to host the event, citing its scientific and institutional infrastructure. Key arguments for the candidacy include the presence of Turkey’s largest telescope, space science research facilities, and academic support from Atatürk University and Erzurum Technical University. The foundation emphasized that the city's success in regional career fairs and the achievements of local student teams in previous TEKNOFEST competitions demonstrate its capacity to manage large-scale technological events.