Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Report on Students' Educational and Social Experiences

Hatay Mustafa Kemal University (HMKÜ) published the results of an extensive international field research on July 13, 2026, examining the educational and social experiences of students. This report, prepared in cooperation with various institutions, focuses on the challenges and successes of students in new educational environments and their adaptation processes [1].

Examining the Experiences of Students Returning to Syria A key part of this report is the results of the international research titled "Social and Educational Experiences of Students Returning from Turkey to Syria after the War." This study, coordinated by HMKÜ and supported by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), examined the situation of pupils and students in the regions of Aleppo, Afrin, and Latakia [1].

The research team, led by Dr. Mehmet Fansa from the HMKÜ Faculty of Education, analyzed the linguistic, psychological, and social adaptation processes of these individuals. The report indicates that educational experiences in Turkey play a vital role in rebuilding the educational system of war-torn areas, and students act as cultural bridges [1].

National Student Satisfaction Survey and Active Participation Simultaneously with this specialized report, HMKÜ invited its students to participate in the national survey organized by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK). This survey, with a deadline of July 15, 2026, seeks to evaluate satisfaction levels, expectations, and career goals of students across all disciplines [2]. The university management emphasized that direct student feedback will be the primary basis for structural reforms in the upcoming academic year.

Vision 2030 and Digital Transformation at the University Professor Dr. Veysel Eren, Rector of HMKÜ, emphasized the importance of "Vision 2030" in his recent speeches marking the end of the 2025-2026 academic year. He noted that the university is no longer just an educational institution but has become a powerful research center focusing on artificial intelligence, big data, and social innovation [3].

Recent university reports show an increase in digital capacities and improved welfare infrastructure at the "Tayfur Sökmen" campus. Despite the challenges posed by post-earthquake reconstruction in the Hatay region, the university has succeeded in raising its educational standards and climbing in national and international rankings [3]. These efforts are directly reflected in the improvement of students' lived experiences and the increase in graduate employment rates [1].