The Middle Black Sea Career Fair (OKAF’26) will open its doors on 8–9 April, hosted by Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU). Organized this year under the theme “The Age of Youth Production” (GÜÇ), the fair will, for the first time, take place in a university campus environment, bringing together the business world and young talents in a more engaging and dynamic setting.

The Middle Black Sea Career Fair (OKAF’26), which brings together Türkiye’s qualified human resources with leading industry representatives, is preparing to connect young people aiming to shape their careers with the business world in Samsun on 8–9 April 2026. Organized under the coordination of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security and the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR), with the support of Türk Telekom and hosted by Ondokuz Mayıs University, the fair is supported by nine partner universities in the region.

OKAF held on a university campus for the first time

Unlike previous editions, OKAF’26 will be held on a university campus for the first time this year. Events will take place in two sports halls of the Yaşar Doğu Faculty of Sports Sciences and at the Atatürk Congress and Culture Center located within the OMU Main Campus. Hosting the fair on campus will both facilitate student participation and enable companies to connect with potential candidates directly within the university environment. It will also provide easier access for participants attending from outside the campus.

10 universities, one goal: qualified employment

The fair, hosted by Ondokuz Mayıs University, will bring together partner universities including Amasya, Çankırı Karatekin, Çorum Hitit, Kastamonu, Ordu, Samsun, Sinop, Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa, and Yozgat Bozok Universities. Creating strong regional synergy, OKAF’26 will guide young participants through a wide range of activities, from interview simulations and workshops to career talks and entrepreneurship panels.

A “talent hunting” opportunity for the business world

The fair is not only important for students but also for companies aiming to strengthen their employer brand and reach the right talent. Participating institutions will be able to conduct one-on-one interviews in dedicated rooms and organize career sessions in event halls to present their brands.

Companies will be able to increase their visibility by renting stands of various sizes (9, 15, and 18 m²) under Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze sponsorship options. Public institutions will also take their place at the fair with designated stands.

Interactive experience areas bridging theory and practice

Going beyond a traditional fair format, OKAF’26 will open new career pathways for young people. During the two-day program, interview simulations will help students transform their job interview anxiety into practical experience, while workshops and panels led by industry professionals will combine theoretical knowledge with real-world practice. Young talents will have the opportunity to shape their career paths in line with their interests and skills directly with human resources representatives, while personal development seminars and inspiring “career talks” will contribute to a more dynamic and interactive employment ecosystem in the region.

All information about OKAF’26, including the updated event schedule and registration details, is available on the official website okaf.omu.edu.tr. Inquiries can be made via phone at +90 362 312 1920 or by email at okaf@omu.edu.tr Additionally, all updates can be followed on social media via @okaf_2026.

Development process of regional career fairs

Launched in 2019 under the leadership of the Presidential Human Resources Office with the motto “Talent is Everywhere,” the Regional Career Fairs have continued to grow each year following a pause during the pandemic. In 2026, the organization has undergone a significant transformation and is being held in 12 different cities under the coordination of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security and the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR), with the support of Türk Telekom, in collaboration with host and partner universities.

Following its successful hosting in 2022 and 2023, Ondokuz Mayıs University had handed over the organization to Samsun University in 2024 and 2025. In 2026, OMU will host OKAF once again for the third time in Samsun.

Aiming particularly to enhance the human resources capacities of SMEs and to integrate university career centers with the business world, OKAF’26 will make a direct contribution to the economic and social development of the Middle Black Sea region.