Hungarian University Organizes Donation Campaign to Help Earthquake Victims in Turkey, Syria

The Hungarian University of Fine Arts (MKE), in partnership with the Turkish Embassy in Budapest and the Yunus Emre Institute’s Cultural Center, is organizing a live charity auction to help earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria.

This is the first event of its kind in the school’s history and according to a press release from the university, students and teachers have already offered 100 graphic design works for the online charity fundraiser auction to which donors have access. Most of these works of art are signed by the creator, and five printed copies can be purchased.

“The most dedicated, unique works of art can be obtained by anyone who donates the fastest - just like in an auction,” the press release reads.

The event will take place on April 21 at the Barcsay Hall of the University. The contributors are many renowned artists who teach at the university, including Attila Auth, László Lelkes, and Ágnes Rozmann, Erudera.com reports.

Speaking about the move, the rector of the Hungarian University of Fine Arts, István Erős, said that the initiative not only offers the opportunity to help but also unites the university’s community and proves the healing power of art.

Meanwhile, Turkish Ambassador Gülşen Karanis Ekşioğlu said that the school is deeply indebted to the Hungarian University of Fine Arts, which launched the unique initiative immediately after the embassy asked for help.

“We believe in the unifying and healing power of art. We hope that every drop of donation will collect like a huge ocean, which will give hope to the survivors, contribute to their recovery and help them get back to life,” the ambassador said.

The total amount of money that will be collected through the initiative organized by the university will go to Turkey's Ministry of Interior, Disaster and Emergency Management Authority, which will arrange the aid through the assistance of the Turkish Embassy in Budapest.

Most higher education institutions worldwide also responded to the earthquake last month, helping survivors through their resources and providing support and aid to students affected by tragic events.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake and aftershocks hit Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023, killing more than 50,000 people and leaving more than one million homeless. The earthquake that struck the two countries was one of the five deadliest in the last twenty years.

>> Higher Education Responds: Turkish & Syrian Universities Help Earthquake Survivors