YÖK President Calls on University Rectors: Be Present on Campuses During Promotion Days

On June 25, 2026, Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education of Turkey (YÖK), issued important messages to university rectors across the country during the 264th Interuniversity Council (ÜAK) meeting held in Ankara. Pointing to the approaching critical period for department selection by national exam candidates, Özvar emphasized the need for transparency and extensive university activity in introducing their educational programs [1][4].

Emphasis on the Field Presence of University Rectors on Campuses The President of YÖK specifically requested rectors to be personally present on campuses during "Promotion Days." He believes that the direct presence of senior academic administrators among candidates and their families provides more confidence and reassurance to future students. Özvar emphasized that universities must use all communication tools, including official websites and social media accounts, to showcase their potential [2][3].

Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Labor Market Needs One of the main pillars of Özvar's speech was the revision of department capacities based on Turkey's manpower needs. He announced that YÖK is actively redesigning academic capacities to align with future labor market requirements. In this regard, new programs have been created, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. Özvar called on universities to powerfully introduce these emerging disciplines to candidates so that the country's elite are guided toward strategic fields [1][4].

Multilingual Advertising to Attract International Students Looking toward global horizons, the President of the Council of Higher Education noted that university promotion activities should not be limited to the Turkish language alone. He asked rectors to prepare their promotional content in foreign languages as well to increase the attractiveness of Turkish universities for international students. The ultimate goal is for universities to attract students with top rankings and higher academic quality, thereby improving their positions in global rankings [2][3].

Introduction of the "Micro-credentials" Model and Industry Links Özvar also pointed to structural developments in the educational system and announced the implementation of the "Micro-credentials" model. This system allows individuals to acquire specific skills directly applicable to the labor market by completing short-term courses. He also mentioned the success of pilot university-industry cooperation programs in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Gaziantep, calling for the expansion of these models to guarantee graduate employment [1][4].