Türkiye Supports Sudanese Education Amid Ongoing Conflict

Türkiye has responded to the ongoing Sudanese civil war by relocating students and faculty from El-Butana University to Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. The Council of Higher Education (YÖK) has initiated the “Guest University Initiative,” facilitating the continuation of education for Sudanese students in Türkiye. This initiative is seen as a significant model for collaboration and support within the Islamic community.

Amidst the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan, Türkçe education is making strides to assist those affected. El-Butana University’s students and faculty, whose academic pursuits were hindered by the war, have been transferred to Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University in Türkiye, facilitated by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK). This initiative aims to ensure that Sudanese students can continue their education despite the turmoil in their homeland.

In response to the crisis, YÖK has initiated the “Guest University Initiative,” which will host Sudan’s Bahri and El-Neelain Universities at Selçuk University and Inönü University, respectively. YÖK President Erol Özvar underscored the importance of this initiative, asserting it strengthens Turkish-Sudanese relations and serves as a model for collaboration within the Islamic world.

Özvar highlighted that universities involved already accommodate Sudanese students, thereby nurturing a supportive academic atmosphere. He remarked, “Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University’s Sudanese students are now welcoming fellow academics and peers, continuing Türkiye’s tradition as a hub for education and research.”

The ongoing turmoil, which erupted on April 15, 2023, between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has resulted in over 20,000 casualties and extensive displacement. According to the United Nations, approximately 25 million individuals currently require humanitarian assistance. The conflict has severely affected El-Butana University, damaging its buildings and operations.

To alleviate the adverse effects of war on students, the Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education sought YÖK’s assistance. Özvar stated, “Many Turkish university graduates have become ministers, prime ministers, and presidents in their home countries. We believe Sudanese students will follow the same path. We will never accept the closure of universities.”

El-Butana University’s Rector, Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud, voiced that online education proved unviable due to resource limitations. Expressing gratitude for Türkiye’s assistance, he conveyed, “When we explained our situation, Türkiye was the first country to hear our plea, and we are incredibly thankful for their support.”

Upon their arrival at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, they recognized the disparities in Sudan’s educational resources. Mohmoud pledged to utilize the expertise gained in Türkiye to enhance Sudanese education. Sudanese student Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla, pursuing a master’s degree, highlighted the benefit of advanced training facilities, stating, “Advanced laboratories and research centers will significantly enhance my practical studies. I will take this knowledge back to Sudan and contribute to my country’s development.”

Similarly, Rashida Ebrahim Hussein, a veterinary medicine student, expressed her satisfaction with her educational journey in Niğde. She noted, “Here, I am learning to use advanced equipment, which I will take back to Sudan. Coming to Türkiye was a fresh start for my academic journey.”

The initiative led by Türkiye to support Sudanese students amid the ongoing conflict is a significant step to ensure educational continuity. By coordinating relocations and hosting partnerships through the Guest University Initiative, YÖK aims to foster academic growth while strengthening international relations. Sudanese students are expected to return to contribute positively to their nation’s development based on the knowledge acquired in Türkiye.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com