The 12th International and 16th National Midwifery Student Congress, organized by the Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Karabük University, was successfully held in Safranbolu between May 14-16, 2026. The congress, themed “Midwifery, a Heritage Profession in a UNESCO Heritage City, Strengthening in the Light of History and Science,” brought together midwifery students, academics, professional representatives, and international participants. Hosted by our department, the congress offered a rich program including academic sessions, oral and poster presentations, talks supporting professional development, practical activities, and social programs. The event, held in the historical setting of Safranbolu, brought together the scientific knowledge of the midwifery profession with participants in a powerful atmosphere integrated with cultural heritage. Associate Professor Dr. Reyhan Aydın Doğan, a faculty member of our department, chaired the Congress, while Student Midwife Hilal Kaçan served as the Student President. Dr. Sebahat Hüseyinoğlu, Research Assistant Begüm Can, and Research Assistant Kübra Nur Kılıç worked in the Congress secretariat. The planning and implementation process of the organization was completed with the intensive efforts and dedicated support of a 60-person student organizing committee. The Congress also included an important interactive session supporting the professional organization of midwifery students. Participating in the session were the Midwives Association, the Midwifery R&D Association, the Midwifery Education Programs Evaluation and Accreditation Association (EPDAK), the Student Midwives Association, the Freelance Midwives Association, the Anatolian Midwives Association, and the Midwifery History Research and Education Association. The session featured an interactive discussion on students' professional development, awareness of associations, and the future of the midwifery profession. One of the most notable events of the congress was the “EBERALLI” competition, organized with the support of UNIDES (University Support Program) and patented by the Midwifery Department of Karabük University. This competition, the first of its kind in Turkey, saw students showcase their professional knowledge and practical skills in case-based stations. Evaluated in areas such as crisis management, practical skills, decision-making, and teamwork, the students engaged in an exciting race against time. Awards were presented to the winning students at the end of the competition. “EBERALLI,” with its structure supporting innovative learning approaches in midwifery education, stood out as one of the strongest outcomes of the congress. In interviews conducted during the congress, Congress President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Reyhan Aydın Doğan stated that the program was prepared with up-to-date, scientifically enriching, and exciting content. Student President Hilal Kaçan expressed her gratitude to the academic team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes of the congress, the 60-member student organizing committee, the participants, and all supporters. The congress concluded successfully with scientific sessions, meetings strengthening professional solidarity, foyer activities, the patented “EBERALLI” competition, commemorative photos, and a gala program. With this organization, our department has created a significant scientific event that strengthens the professional affiliation of midwifery students and contributes to the future of the midwifery profession.
