YÖK President Fully Supports Gaziantep University’s Path to Industry Integration

During an official visit by the Council of Higher Education delegation to the scientific hubs of southeastern Turkey, Professor Erol Özvar, President of the Council, emphasized the strategic importance of Gaziantep University (GAÜN) in the region's economic and scientific cycle. In his remarks, he noted that with its existing potential, this university will soon become one of the leading institutions in bilateral cooperation between academic environments and industrial sectors [1].

Focus on Employment and Skill-Based Education The President of the Council of Higher Education pointed out that universities must move beyond theoretical education, stating that Gaziantep University's educational model is approaching the standards that today's labor market urgently requires. Özvar believes that the presence of students in the heart of industrial centers and practical experience during their studies is the key to the future success of the university's graduates [3]. He emphasized that government and structural support for the university's joint projects with local Gaziantep industries will be maximized.

Gaziantep; A Model for Other Turkish Universities As one of Turkey's largest production and export centers, the city of Gaziantep provides a suitable platform for linking science and commerce. Professor Özvar stated that by utilizing this geographical and economic position, Gaziantep University can serve as a "reference model" for other universities in the country [2]. This full support indicates a major shift in the management of Turkish higher education toward regional specialization.

Future Outlook and Infrastructure Development At the end of the visit, it was announced that special plans are in place to strengthen Research and Development (R&D) laboratories at Gaziantep University. Özvar noted that the ultimate goal is to create an ecosystem where knowledge produced at the university is directly converted into added value in industry [1]. This approach not only contributes to the region's economic growth but also elevates Turkey's scientific standing internationally.