Name of Turkey's first female doctor in Germany given to a street in Dortmund

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The name of Turkey's first female medical doctor to earn the title of physician in Germany, Safiye Ali, who received her medical education in Germany and graduated as the top student at that time from Würzburg University has been given to a street in Dortmund, Germany.

Safiye Ali Street, Dortmund

Born in Istanbul in 1894, Safiye Ali, with the support of her father who was a palace attendant, obtained a scholarship to study medicine in Würzburg, Germany, after the end of World War I. She became a specialist in women's and children's diseases. After marrying Dr. Ferdinand Krekeler, an ophthalmologist in Germany, Safiye Ali returned to Turkey in 1923 and practiced medicine in her private clinic in Istanbul.

She later returned to Germany and continued her medical practice in Dortmund while also teaching at the medical faculty. Dr. Safiye Ali, who contributed significantly to medical education and practice, passed away on July 5, 1952, after battling cancer.

Dr. Safiye Ali Street

The inauguration ceremony for Dr. Safiye Ali Street on Thursday (August 17) was attended by Turkey's Consul General in Essen, Taylan Aydın, local government officials, representatives from political parties, and civil society organizations, as reported by Expat Guide Turkey.

During the event, the life of Turkey's first female medical doctor, Safiye Ali, was commemorated in speeches. Dortmund City Council Member Emre Güleç mentioned that Dortmund Municipality has been closely involved with Safiye Ali's grave since its discovery two years ago.

He highlighted that Dortmund Municipality initiated the construction of the grave and established the "Safiye Ali Medical Prize," while also noting that the street used to be named after a Nazi officer who served in World War II.

"We are proud and happy about changing the name of this street in our city to Safiye Ali," said Güleç, emphasizing that Safiye Ali serves as an example for both Turkish and German societies with her contributions to women's rights and the field of medicine.

Güleç announced that Dortmund Municipality will award the first "Safiye Ali Medical Prize" in 2024 and mentioned that the preparations for Safiye Ali's new grave are nearing completion. (AEK/PE)