BDAS Kiel

The ‘BDAS’ (Alevi Student Group) in Kiel is the northernmost Alevi student group in Germany and represents the interests of Alevis at Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, where it is also accredited. The student group was reactivated in 2019 and continues to exist today with its current membership of around 20. The ‘BDAS’ in Kiel has Alevi students from most of the university’s degree programmes as members and therefore offers an opportunity for exchange with like-minded people or students from other degree programmes. However, the focus is on promoting Alevi beliefs within higher education institutions in order to reach out to students who have not previously been part of Alevi organisations, so that they can engage more deeply with their faith and socially relevant issues such as equality, environmental policy and the participation of minority groups in higher education.

The Kiel branch of the ‘BDAS’ (Alevi Cultural Association) generally holds a regular get-together on the first Thursday of every month. This serves as an opportunity for members and interested parties to meet and exchange ideas. Sometimes these get-togethers take place at the community centre, but mostly in cafés, parks or other venues. As well as discussions on Alevi topics, most get-togethers also feature other activities such as bowling or escape rooms.

The fact that the regulars’ get-togethers take place on a Thursday, of all days, is not arbitrary but is linked to the holy day in the Alevi faith. On Thursdays, the so-called ‘Çerağs’ are lit. Light plays an important role in Alevi belief. Light symbolises education, enlightenment and awareness.

The ‘BDAS’ in Kiel is not just there to bring Alevi students in Kiel together. Exchanges have also taken place with other Alevi university groups across Germany. For example, with the ‘BDAS’ in Aachen (see photo) or the ‘BDAS’ in Berlin. They meet up in one city at the weekend, do things together and get to know one another. Then, on another weekend, the others come to visit. Whilst such exchanges primarily bring together members of one’s own university group, the travel involved also fosters contact with other Alevi students across Germany, whom it is easier to get in touch with through the BDAS.

If you’ve now fancied popping along to a meet-up or would like to follow theBDASKiel on social media for now, then do have a look on Instagram. There you’ll find details of upcoming events and dates.