Turkey and Mauritania Sign Strategic Memorandum of Understanding in Higher Education

Expanding Scientific Horizons Between Ankara and Nouakchott In a new step to strengthen Turkey's scientific diplomacy in Africa, Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), and Professor Yaqoub Ould Moine, Mauritanian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in higher education [1]. The ceremony, held on June 27, 2026, at Yıldız Technical University in Istanbul, marks a turning point in the educational relations between the two countries [3].

The President of YÖK emphasized during the ceremony that every new partnership in higher education is an opportunity to link Turkey's academic experiences with friendly and brotherly nations. He noted that this agreement provides a powerful platform for future collaborations that will benefit not only students but the entire scientific community of both nations [4].

Main Pillars of Bilateral Cooperation This memorandum includes a wide range of scientific and educational activities. Key provisions of the agreement include: - Joint Degree Programs: Encouraging universities in both countries to launch joint undergraduate and graduate courses [2]. - Student and Faculty Mobility: Facilitating the exchange process for students and faculty members to benefit from mutual educational experiences [4]. - Joint Scientific Research: Conducting research projects in areas of mutual interest, particularly in technical and engineering sectors. - Digital Higher Education: Cooperation in developing virtual education infrastructure and sharing digital academic resources [2].

Proposal to Establish a Joint University in Mauritania A highlight of the meeting was the official request from the Mauritanian side for the direct presence of Turkish universities in their country. The Mauritanian Minister of Higher Education proposed the establishment of a "comprehensive university" in Mauritania modeled after the Turkish education system [3].

In response, Erol Özvar stated: "We are ready to establish a 'Roof University' in Mauritania using the educational programs of Turkey's top universities" [3]. This move could further solidify Turkey's scientific position as an educational hub in North and West Africa.

Shifting Perspective from West to East Professor Yaqoub Ould Moine pointed to a change in the attitude of Mauritanian students. He stated that in the past, studying in France was considered a "fashion" and a top priority, but today conditions have changed [3].

The Mauritanian minister emphasized that studying at Turkish universities has now become highly valuable and attractive for Mauritanian youth. This shift reflects Turkey's success in improving the quality of higher education and attracting international talent from Islamic and African countries [4]. These collaborations are seen as part of Turkey's grand strategy to strengthen ties with African nations through "soft power" and educational diplomacy.