Türkiye has established the ‘Guest Universities Initiative’ to support Sudanese students displaced by civil war, allowing them to continue their education at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University. This partnership was initiated by Türkiye’s Higher Education Council amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where educational institutions are severely affected. The initiative aims to ensure that students can safely resume their studies and eventually contribute to Sudan’s development.
Türkiye has emerged as an educational sanctuary for students and academics whose studies were disrupted due to the civil war in Sudan. Initiated by Türkiye’s Higher Education Council, the ‘Guest Universities Initiative’ has facilitated a partnership between Al-Butana University in Sudan and Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, allowing students to continue their studies in a more stable and supportive environment.
Since the onset of violence on April 15, 2023, Sudan has faced severe humanitarian crises, with over 20,000 lives lost and millions displaced. The conflict has significantly affected educational institutions like Al-Butana University, which have seen their facilities damaged and operations interrupted. Understanding the urgent need to support Sudanese students, the Ministry of Higher Education in Sudan reached out to Türkiye for assistance.
In response, Türkiye’s Higher Education Council promptly initiated the Guest University Initiative, relocating students and faculty from Al-Butana University to Nigde Omer Halisdemir University. This initiative has involved the transfer of 18 individuals, including the institution’s rector, faculty members, and students at various academic levels, ensuring continuity in education amidst the ongoing conflict.
President Erol Ozvar of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council reported discussions with Sudanese officials regarding the dire situation in their educational sector. Expressing their commitment to supporting Sudan’s academic community, Türkiye offered a model where multiple universities in Sudan could operate within Türkiye’s university system, thereby preventing closures and allowing students to pursue their education safely.
As part of the initiative, students from other Sudanese universities, such as Bahri University and Al-Neelain University, are also set to continue their studies at designated universities in Türkiye. Ozvar emphasized that this pioneering collaboration reflects Türkiye’s long-standing tradition of supporting scholars in distress and provides a peaceful environment for academic endeavors.
Al-Butana University’s rector, Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud, commended Türkiye for its swift response and support during these challenging times. He noted that due to the war, the university had resorted to online learning, which was not sustainable in the absence of adequate resources. Mohmoud highlighted Türkiye’s significance as a supportive partner in education and expressed hope for future improvements in Sudan’s educational landscape.
Students like Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla and Rashida Ebrahim Hussein have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn in Türkiye’s advanced academic setting. Gahalrsoul emphasized the importance of practical training in his field, while Hussein stressed the need to enhance Sudan’s livestock technology through her education. Both students are committed to applying their newfound knowledge to benefit their home country upon their return.
In conclusion, Türkiye’s ‘Guest Universities Initiative’ serves as a beacon of hope for Sudanese students affected by civil unrest. By facilitating the relocation of students and faculty, Türkiye exemplifies its commitment to education and international cooperation. The collaborative efforts not only enable students to continue their academic pursuits safely but are also vital for future contributions to Sudan’s development once stability returns.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
