The International Education and Partnerships unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) held an International Public Lecture on Turkish TV Series and South Africa–Türkiye Relations, titled: “The Contribution of Turkish TV Series to Türkiye–South Africa Relation.”  The event took place at the ML Sultan Conference Room on 20 August 2025.

Pictured: Second years Public Relations Students who attended the Public Lecture.

The thought-provoking international public lecture was presented by Professor Fatih Bartic, a distinguished academic from  the Aksaray University in Türkiye. The event exemplified DUT’s commitment to internationalisation and academic engagement, as highlighted by its strategic vision under ENVISION2030. It was also a part of the university’s celebration of its 21 years of impact (2004–2025), reinforcing DUT’s role as a forward-thinking institution dedicated to creativity, integrity, and global partnerships.

The lecture focused on how Turkish TV dramas, often rich in cultural and historical narratives, have not only captivated global audiences but also played a subtle yet powerful role in strengthening international relations, specifically between Türkiye and South Africa. Professor Bartic, who holds a PhD in Public Relations and Publicity from the Selçuk University, offered valuable insights into how media can influence public diplomacy and cultural perceptions.

During the session, Professor Bartic delved into the ways Turkish series contribute to Türkiye’s soft power, acting as cultural ambassadors by presenting Turkish values, traditions, and modern societal shifts. He emphasised how these series are received in South Africa and how they can serve as a medium to enhance mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the two nations.

The audience, which included students, academics, and professionals, engaged actively during the question and answer sessions, sparking discussions on media influence, transnational reception of popular culture, and the importance of intercultural dialogue in diplomacy.

“It was eye-opening to realise how much influence television has on shaping our perceptions of other countries. I now see Turkish dramas not just as shows, but as a window into a culture,” said DUT’s Sfiso Dlamini.

The audience were not only with a deeper understanding of Turkish media’s global influence but also inspired by the potential of cross-cultural storytelling in building bridges across continents.

Pictured: Attendees at the recent Public Lecture.

Nomzamo Zulu