Türkiye has become an educational haven for Sudanese students displaced by civil war, facilitating their studies at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. The Turkish Council of Higher Education coordinated these efforts after Sudan’s Al-Butana University was severely impacted by violence. The initiative aims to ensure students can study safely in Türkiye, preparing them to contribute to Sudan’s future once peace is restored.
Türkiye has emerged as a significant educational refuge for Sudanese students and academics affected by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. This initiative allows them to continue their academic pursuits at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, in collaboration with the Turkish Council of Higher Education, which coordinates these efforts. The war, characterized by violent clashes between military factions, has caused extensive humanitarian crises, displacing millions and severely impacting the educational landscape in Sudan.
In response to the disruptions faced by Al-Butana University, which suffered damage to its facilities, the Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education reached out to Türkiye. As a result, the Turkish Council of Higher Education launched the “Guest University Initiative,” facilitating the relocation of 18 individuals, including academic staff and students, to Türkiye for uninterrupted education. This model provides a secure environment for students and aims to prepare them for future contributions in Sudan post-graduation.
Erol Özvar, President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council, emphasized the need to support Sudanese universities in crisis. Meetings with Sudanese officials resulted in the hosting of several Sudanese universities in Türkiye to ensure that education continues without cessation. Özvar stated, “We do not want universities to shut down,” showcasing Türkiye’s commitment to educational continuity.
Additionally, the initiative signifies Türkiye’s historical openness to international scholars facing challenges in their home nations. Özvar noted that Sudanese students can now study and conduct research in a safe environment, reinforcing Türkiye’s role as a nurturing space for academic growth. He expressed hopes for a peaceful future for students returning to Sudan after their studies.
Rector Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud of Al-Butana University recognized Türkiye’s support during their educational crisis, highlighting the long-standing ties between the two nations. He expressed gratitude for Türkiye acting swiftly when many uncertainties surrounded Sudanese education, showcasing the contrast in educational conditions he observed after arriving in Türkiye.
Students such as Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla and Rashida Ebrahim Hussein shared their aspirations of using the knowledge and advanced skills they acquire in Türkiye to benefit Sudan’s development, particularly in fields such as biochemistry and veterinary medicine. Their commitment emphasizes the potential of these students to positively impact their home country after experiencing educational opportunities abroad.
Türkiye has established itself as a crucial educational sanctuary for Sudanese students facing the dire consequences of civil war, enabling them to pursue their studies in a supportive environment. The collaborative initiatives ensure the continuation of academic activities while emphasizing the long-term goal of contributing to Sudan’s future development. Through such efforts, Türkiye is setting an exemplary model of international support in higher education.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
