Established on January 27, 2013, under the leadership of Near East University Faculty of Dentistry, the Northern Cyprus Association of Dentistry Students (NCADS) stands as the first and only dentistry student union on the island. This pioneering initiative unites undergraduate dentistry students within the faculty, fostering representation on both national and international platforms and encouraging wide participation through an effective communication network.

NCADS aims to enable students to contribute academically and socially to the field of “Dentistry and Society.” By organizing professional development projects and events, the association promotes knowledge exchange and enhances its presence both locally and globally. Particularly active since 2018, NCADS has taken a leading role in social responsibility initiatives and scientific events, reaching broader audiences through local events, international conferences, and online platforms. These efforts provide opportunities for students to grow academically and socially while contributing to society.

The core mission of NCADS revolves around ensuring the flow of knowledge on national and international levels, enhancing professional skills through student exchange programs, staying updated with innovations, and fostering knowledge-sharing among dental students from diverse cultural backgrounds. As a full member of the International Association of Dental Students (IADS), NCADS recently achieved national membership status, solidifying its global standing.

Throughout its journey, NCADS has spearheaded numerous notable projects. For instance, during the 2018-2019 academic year, the association organized the IADS Mid-Year Meeting (MYM) Congress in North Cyprus, bringing together dental students and professionals from around the world. The same year, the IADS Clinical Exchange Program hosted students for an enriching cultural and academic experience, including a guided tour of Famagusta. NCADS also initiated impactful awareness campaigns, such as distributing informational brochures during Antibiotic Awareness Week in November 2018. These activities not only engaged the local community but also highlighted the importance of public health awareness.

Educational seminars and talks, such as the Dentalks series, have further strengthened the association’s academic contributions. Noteworthy sessions included a presentation by Orthodontic Specialist Dr. Yunus Akalın, who shared valuable insights with students. International recognition followed as the NCADS President received a prestigious award in February 2019, underscoring the association’s dedication to excellence.

NCADS has also embraced modern trends in dentistry, focusing on topics like artificial intelligence, stem cell applications, and aesthetic dentistry. During the 2019-2020 academic year, the association hosted spring symposiums and webinars, creating platforms for in-depth discussions and innovative ideas. By 2022, NCADS expanded its outreach with social responsibility projects, including oral hygiene education at child welfare institutions, further demonstrating its commitment to societal well-being.

Projects supported by the Faculty Event Coordination Unit of Near East University are implemented through the collaboration of students and faculty members. Through activities such as panels and informational seminars, NCADS aims to raise public awareness and provide participants with valuable learning experiences.

Moreover, courses like “Community Oral and Dental Health” and “Community Service Practices,” integrated into the faculty’s curriculum, significantly contribute to the development of social responsibility among students. Through these courses, students analyze the oral and dental health needs of the community and develop solution-oriented projects. Their active participation in these initiatives strengthens individual and group responsibilities, while also serving as a key criterion in evaluating academic success.

11During the Spring Semester of the 2021-2022 academic year, topics such as digital dentistry and aesthetic implant applications were highlighted at the symposium, while an oral hygiene education and screening event at the Child Protection Institution strengthened social responsibility awareness.

In the Fall Semester of 2022-2023, Prof. Dr. Arnaldo Castellucci delivered an international presentation titled Clinical and Surgical Approach to the Presence of Two Root Canals in the Same Root, offering solutions for challenging clinical cases.

The Dentalks series in the Spring Semester of 2022-2023 attracted great attention, featuring scientific presentations by esteemed speakers such as Dr. Uğur Ergin, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sina Saygılı, Dr. Onur Ağmaz, and Specialist Dt. Halil Toros Bingöl. Between February 19-24, 2023, the MYM2 Mid-Year Meeting Congress provided an opportunity for dentistry students to connect on both national and international levels.

In the Fall Semester of 2023-2024, events such as the Beach Party were organized, strengthening the social bonds among students. In the 2024-2025 academic year, volleyball and basketball tournaments were organized with the aim of bringing students and faculty members together, fostering social interaction and strengthening connections within the community. In the 2024-2025 academic year, volleyball and basketball tournaments were organized with the aim of bringing students and faculty members together, fostering social interaction and strengthening connections within the community. With the upcoming 2025 New Year Party scheduled for December 28, we aim to welcome the new year with great energy and enthusiasm, bringing our community together for a joyful celebration.

NCADS’ activities offer students extensive opportunities for academic and personal growth. By encouraging participation in social responsibility projects, the association helps young dentists embark on their professional journeys with a strong sense of community awareness and well-rounded competencies.

For more information, please visit the faculty’s website: dentistry.neu.edu.tr.