Near East University and Cyprus International University have signed a comprehensive collaboration protocol aimed at developing joint projects, increasing student mobility, and strengthening scientific production. The protocol was signed by Near East University Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ and Cyprus International University Rector Prof. Dr. Erbuğ Çelebi at a ceremony held at Near East University.

The signing ceremony was also attended by Cyprus International University Board of Trustees Member Prof. Dr. Ahmet Adalıer, Near East University Vice Rector Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Tüzünkan, and Near East Institute Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Çıraklı.

Under the protocol, the two universities will work together on a variety of topics, including faculty and research exchange, sharing scientific areas of expertise, and developing joint projects and academic activities. In this context, the aim is to actively engage both academics and students in scientific production processes through joint research, conferences, seminars, and workshops. Furthermore, student exchange programs will provide students with the opportunity to experience different campus cultures and develop themselves on an international scale.

By opening the two universities’ library, laboratory, and digital resource infrastructures to mutual academic collaboration, a much richer and more comprehensive environment for scientific research will be created.

Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ: “This partnership is an important part of the goal of improving the quality of higher education in our country.”

Near East University Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ emphasized that the past collaborations between the two universities have laid a strong foundation, saying, “To date, our academics have participated together in numerous projects. We have conducted research, implemented faculty exchange programs, and achieved significant success in joint academic activities. Now, we are taking this collaboration even further.”

Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ said, “I believe this collaboration will yield positive results for our country. I sincerely thank everyone who supported the process.” He also emphasized that this partnership is an important part of the goal of improving the quality of higher education in Northern Cyprus, adding that the knowledge the two institutions will produce together will also add value to regional and international academic networks.

Prof. Dr. Erbuğ Çelebi: “Our collaboration will add value to the higher education system in the TRNC.”

Rector of Cyprus International University, Prof. Dr. Erbuğ Çelebi, emphasized the importance of the protocol, saying, “We are signing a general-purpose collaboration protocol with Near East University. This partnership between two strong institutions, ranked among the top five universities in Cyprus, will add value not only to our own academic structures but also to the higher education system in the TRNC.” Prof. Dr. Çelebi emphasized that the joint symposiums and scientific projects to be conducted will strengthen the research capacity of both institutions and the country. Prof. Dr. Çelebi stated that this step is not just a protocol between institutions, but a strategic move that will significantly increase scientific production and academic interaction in the TRNC. He added that students and academics will gain access to a broader academic network and seize new research opportunities.