In a significant move toward supporting scientific innovation and community safety, Turkish technology giant Vestel has officially become the technology sponsor of the Marmara Active Fault Hazard and Risk Implementation and Research Center (MATAM), established under Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ). The center was formed in early 2024 by Presidential decree following the devastating February 6, 2023 earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, with the mission of enhancing earthquake risk analysis and resilience strategies in the Marmara region.
A Technological Commitment to a Safer Future
Duygu Badem Uylukçuoğlu, Vestel’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the company’s vision in a statement, asserting that their social investments are not just short-term efforts but long-term commitments aimed at creating lasting value for future generations.
“In a country like ours where the reality of earthquakes shapes everyday life, the most effective defense against disasters lies in scientific and technological advancements. Our collaboration with MATAM is a key step in building a more resilient Marmara region. We believe this partnership will push scientific boundaries and deliver sustainable benefits for society and future generations alike,” she said.
MATAM: Science-Driven Earthquake Readiness
Led by Professor Dr. Cenk Yaltırak, MATAM brings together state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge data visualization technologies to improve earthquake preparedness. According to Prof. Yaltırak, Türkiye has lost over 126,000 lives to earthquakes in the last century.
He underlined that tackling such large-scale disasters cannot be achieved through fragmented efforts, stating:
“We’re building an institution that belongs to the second half of the 21st century in terms of technological capabilities. It’s 25 years ahead of any organization in Türkiye. You cannot make effective plans unless you predict risk accurately. If you can’t model earthquakes, if you lack sensors and observation networks, and if you’re not truly utilizing data and knowledge, progress is unattainable.”
What sets MATAM apart, he explained, is its ability to visualize seismic data. Instead of relying on lengthy technical documents, MATAM uses 3D fault maps to illustrate where and how tectonic stress builds and how buildings might respond during rupture events.
Vestel’s Contributions to MATAM’s Infrastructure
Vestel is providing technology and equipment to power MATAM’s laboratories, meeting rooms, and living spaces. These resources are set to enhance research productivity and ensure that investigations into earthquake risks are conducted in modern and comfortable environments.
From sensors and communication tools to integrated control systems, Vestel’s involvement allows researchers to monitor, simulate, and visualize complex earthquake scenarios with greater speed and accuracy.
A Center Built Entirely Through Private Support
Remarkably, MATAM is entirely funded by private sector contributions. From infrastructure development to researcher salaries, the center operates without relying on public funding. This model of corporate-academic collaboration is rare and reflects a growing recognition of the private sector’s role in disaster resilience.
Vestel’s sponsorship is part of a broader corporate social responsibility strategy that spans sports, environmental sustainability, technology development, and arts and culture. Their partnership with MATAM is a practical application of their guiding principle: “Technology for a better future.”
The Role of Technology in Earthquake Simulation and Risk Mapping
Since its launch in early 2024, MATAM has been focused on utilizing the latest simulation technologies to map out active fault lines and model different earthquake rupture scenarios at high speed. These efforts are aimed at identifying the most effective ways to minimize human and material losses.
The center works to:
Develop up-to-date hazard and risk maps for the Marmara region
Simulate multiple fault rupture scenarios using advanced computation tools
Propose urban planning and building reinforcement strategies based on data-driven insights
Engage with local governments and policymakers for informed decision-making
A Model for Public-Private Partnerships in Disaster Preparedness
MATAM stands as a shining example of how industry and academia can collaborate to address national challenges. With companies like Vestel offering not just funding but also technology solutions, such partnerships offer a blueprint for future investments in public safety and research infrastructure.
Prof. Yaltırak noted that without institutional collaboration, Türkiye cannot expect to advance in disaster science. Data, hardware, and human capital must be synchronized to build cities and communities that are ready for the next big quake.
A Safer Türkiye Through Science
As climate change, rapid urbanization, and seismic risks converge, initiatives like MATAM represent a proactive step forward. Türkiye, situated on one of the world’s most seismically active zones, requires constant innovation to mitigate the devastating impact of future earthquakes.
Vestel’s involvement strengthens this mission and positions the company as a responsible stakeholder not only in consumer technology but also in scientific advancement and societal well-being.
