Bahçeşehir University (BAU) and the European Neighborhood Council (ENC) have officially signed a memorandum of cooperation and collaboration, solidifying their commitment to forging impactful alliances and fostering enduring relationships. The agreement, spanning a two-year period, aims to synergize efforts towards common ideals and objectives.
The primary aim of this strategic partnership is to leverage the strengths of both institutions to enact meaningful change and drive progress in various domains. Through joint initiatives and collaborative endeavors, BAU and ENC seek to facilitate knowledge exchange, promote academic discourse, and contribute to socio-economic development.
ENC, in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR, and BAU FEASS, will organize a series of events encompassing trainings, lectures, seminars, and conferences, providing a platform for intellectual exchange and networking. The partnership offers students and alumni the opportunity to participate in these events, fostering professional development and fostering a sense of community amongst stakeholders. Both institutions will facilitate exchanges of experts, internships, and joint research projects, creating avenues for cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge transfer.
This partnership underscores the shared commitment of BAU and ENC to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. By harnessing collective expertise and resources, both institutions are poised to make a tangible impact on local and global scales.
CIFAL Istanbul, a leading institution dedicated to promoting sustainable development and international cooperation, proudly participated in the third Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) held from March 1-3, 2024, under the auspices of H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Türkiye.
With a record-breaking attendance of 4700 participants, including representatives from 147 countries and 19 heads of state, the ADF served as a crucial platform for advancing diplomacy in times of turmoil. Themed “Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil,” the forum covered a wide array of topics ranging from conflict resolution to climate change, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in addressing pressing global challenges.
For CIFAL Istanbul, this was the second time of participation at the ADF. Director and representatives from CIFAL Istanbul joined the panels occuring by heads of state, leaders of international organizations, academics, and other stakeholders in engaging discussions on critical issues such as ongoing conflicts, irregular migration, and the rise of xenophobia and Islamophobia.
The forum provided an enriching experience for CIFAL Istanbul, with a particular emphasis on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As an institution dedicated to advancing sustainable development, CIFAL Istanbul reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, addressing climate change, and reducing inequalities, in line with the SDGs agenda.
CIFAL Istanbul looks forward to further collaboration with partners and stakeholders to drive positive change and contribute to building a more resilient and equitable world.
CIFAL Istanbul’s Deputy Director, Dr. Yasemin Ulker delivered her insightful presentation titled “Innovative Approaches to Activate the Role of Universities in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals” at the International Conference, “Universities and Sustainable Development Goals 2030: Targets and Practices”.
The event which was held on 22-23 January at Majmaah University in Riyadh under the patronage of the Minister of Education of Saudia Arabia, Yousef Abdullah Al-Benyan, brought thinkers, academicians, and sustainability advocators who share a common dedication to promoting sustainable development globally.
The presentation delivered by Dr. Yasemin Ulker, the Deputy Director of CIFAL Istanbul highlighted the emerging trends, prospects, and challenges ahead. Moreover, it brought insightful information that a university can do such as CIFAL Istanbul within Bahçeşehir University and its innovative projects.
CIFAL Istanbul stands as a leading innovative organization as a bridge between the sector, NGOs, and the academy with its past and continuing projects that are answering current challenges by asking “What is needed?” and coming up with tailored solutions.