The MAKÜ Model: A Paradigm That Amazed the Journalists Federation

During the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) in the city of Burdur, a high-level delegation from the Mediterranean Journalists Federation (AGF) visited this scientific center. Hosted by Rector Professor Dr. Hüseyin Dalgar at the Lavanta Tepesi Hotel, the visit provided an opportunity to showcase the stunning achievements of the "MAKÜ Model" in the fields of applied education and modern technologies [1][2].

Artificial Intelligence: The Core Pillar of Education in All Disciplines One of the most prominent features of the MAKÜ educational model that caught the special attention of journalists is the mandatory inclusion of Artificial Intelligence courses in all departments and fields of study. During the meeting, Professor Dalgar emphasized that universities have a duty to prepare students not for today's world, but for the challenges of the future world [1]. This pioneering approach has placed MAKÜ at the forefront of digital transformation in the Turkish higher education system [3]. Additionally, the implementation of 93 different "micro-credential" programs allows students to acquire specialized and secondary skills required by the labor market alongside their main degree [1].

Workplace Training Model: A Real Link Between Science and Industry By implementing the "Workplace Training" (İş Yeri Eğitimi) model for the first time in Turkey, MAKÜ has created a revolution in graduate employment. In this model, final-year students spend their entire academic time directly in relevant industrial and professional sectors [3]. This practical experience has significantly increased the employment rate of the university's graduates. Gaye Coşkun, President of the AGF Federation, stated after reviewing this system: "At MAKÜ, you have created more than just a campus; you have created a living and dynamic city that links science with real life" [2].

International Success and Academic Rankings MAKÜ is not only a leader in applied education; it has also achieved great success in research fields. According to reports published in June 2026, the university ranked third in Psychology among all Turkish universities [1]. Furthermore, in the TÜBİTAK ARDEB research performance evaluations, MAKÜ was ranked among the top 35 universities in Turkey [1]. On the international stage, the university hosts 1,600 students from 40 different countries, with a target to reach 4,000 in the near future to further strengthen the global vision of this scientific center [2][3].

The Role of Media in Promoting Successful Educational Models At the end of the visit, members of the Mediterranean Journalists Federation praised Professor Dalgar's transparent and vision-oriented management and emphasized the importance of media coverage for such successful models. According to the AGF delegation, the MAKÜ Model can serve as a "model university" not only in the Mediterranean region but also at national and international levels to redefine the relationship between the university and society [1][2].