Bastak Instruments, Turkey's Leading Company in Grain Quality Control Devices, Takes Innovative Steps in Agriculture in Africa Ankara, Turkey – Bastak Instruments, a technology giant headquartered in Turkey,

Bastak Instruments, Turkey's Leading Company in Grain Quality Control Devices, Takes Innovative Steps in Agriculture in Africa Ankara, Turkey – Bastak Instruments, a technology giant headquartered in Turkey, continues its leadership in the field of food, grain, seed, and oilseed laboratory quality control devices. With state-of-the-art equipment at its 5-star R&D and Innovation center, comprehensive laboratory solutions from A to Z, and educational activities conducted under Bastak Academy, the company maintains its position at the forefront. Zeki Demirtaşoğlu, the manager of Bastak Group Companies, shared information about their innovative work on agriculture and agricultural workers during his recent trip to Africa. Bastak Instruments, with a quarter-century expertise in food safety, quality control in food, and sustainable agriculture, is taking significant steps to contribute to the development of the agricultural sector in Africa. As part of these efforts, Zeki Demirtaşoğlu visited Africa to examine the company's recent projects on the continent and to meet with local farmers. Founder of Bastak Group Companies, Zeki Demirtaşoğlu, Embarks on a Journey for Agriculture and Technology in Africa During his visit to Africa, Zeki Demirtaşoğlu had the opportunity to personally observe projects aimed at increasing the productivity of local farmers through the company's agricultural innovation and technology solutions. These projects encompass a wide range, including the teaching of modern farming techniques and the training of blue and white-collar personnel working in the food and agriculture sectors. Innovative Solutions with Agricultural Innovation and Technology Agriculture is a key factor for the future of Africa. The African continent hosts most of the world's arable land, and half of the population works in the agricultural sector, contributing the largest share to the total gross domestic product. However, Africa has not seen a significant increase in productivity since the 1980s, producing insufficient food and low-value-added products. Wheat, being one of the world's most important cereal crops after rice, is a subject of international trade and a crucial component of industrial and food grain in sub-Saharan African countries. Wheat is also a strategic product generating farmer income. Ethiopia is one of the largest wheat producers in terms of total wheat-cultivated area and total production. Demirtaşoğlu, emphasizing the critical role of laboratory quality control devices used in the food, grain, seed, and oilseed sectors in ensuring product quality and safety, stated that Bastak Instruments aims to support farmers and local agricultural organizations in Africa with state-of-the-art 72 types of quality control devices, expert and academic staff, and training activities under Bastak Academy to enhance the quality of agricultural products in the region. They aim to elevate the region's food safety standards. During his visit, Zeki Demirtaşoğlu observed the use of these devices and engaged in significant discussions with local laboratories and agricultural organizations on integrating these technologies. Empowering Communities with Education and Capacity Development Projects Demirtaşoğlu also examined education and capacity development projects aimed at empowering local communities during his trip to Africa. These projects seek to support the adoption of sustainable farming practices by providing education to farmers on modern agricultural techniques and laboratory quality control applications under the Bastak Academy. He mentioned their efforts to establish the Milling and Sector Machinery Manufacturers Association (DESMÜD) and Ankara Metropolitan Municipality partnership to create the Milling and Bread, Pasta, Biscuit Training Center, which will provide education in both English and Turkish—a first in Turkey and globally. They aim to offer innovative technologies and best practices to tens of thousands of learners who have not received formal education and have not fully adapted to the requirements of the times, coming from Africa, Turkic Republics, Latin America, the Middle East, and other countries. Social Responsibility Projects for Community Interaction Demirtaşoğlu, acknowledging Africa not only as a geographical continent but also as a home to diverse cultures, rich histories, and strong connections, expressed that the challenges and disadvantages in the region deeply influenced him during his visit. He mentioned their desire to make a positive impact by reaching out to people's lives, taking a step towards education, and helping them look towards the future with hope. Zeki Demirtaşoğlu emphasized that Bastak Instruments is focused on creating an impact not only in the business world but also in the field of social responsibility. He added that, through social responsibility projects for African agricultural communities, they aim to improve the living standards of people in rural areas by providing support in health, education, and infrastructure. Zeki Demirtaşoğlu's Journey in Africa through His Eyes Zeki Demirtaşoğlu believes that true change in Africa's agricultural sector, sustainability, and technology is possible when they converge. Following his visit to Africa, he expressed that their company has initiated efforts to provide support to local farmers and communities, aiming to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology. He stated that, with love and support, they hope these efforts can bring about positive contributions to the agricultural future of the continent, ultimately working together to bring about change in Africa.