President of the Council of Higher Education (Türkiye), Erol Özvar, has emphasized the importance of international academic cooperation, stating that such collaboration would foster “brain circulation” rather than brain drain, benefiting both institutions and societies.

Speaking during meetings held as part of the Eurasian Higher Education Summit (EURIE), Özvar underlined that the exchange of knowledge, skills, and experience among universities would strengthen not only academic institutions but also broader societal development and shared future perspectives.

On the sidelines of the summit, Özvar met with delegations from the Eurasian Universities Union (EURAS) and the Association of Arab Universities, as well as representatives from Pakistan and Bulgaria.

He highlighted the strategic importance of EURIE, noting that the summit provides a unique platform for universities and academic networks to collaborate. According to Özvar, universities act as vital bridges connecting cultures, societies, and academic disciplines.

During the discussions, the “Arab–Eurasian Higher Education Corridor Project” was formally presented. Özvar stated that the initiative has the potential to develop into a structured and sustainable platform, enhancing cooperation between Arab and Eurasian higher education institutions.

Özvar stressed that universities play a crucial role in promoting peace and stability, particularly in a period marked by global political and military uncertainties. He noted that academic collaboration contributes not only to scientific advancement but also to mutual understanding among nations.

“Cooperation is no longer a choice, but a necessity,” Özvar said, emphasizing that in today’s interconnected and competitive higher education landscape, no institution can reach its full potential in isolation.

He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening ties with international academic organizations and outlined key areas for collaboration, including joint academic programs, student and staff mobility, research partnerships, digital academic exchange, and knowledge sharing.

As part of the summit engagements, Özvar also met with a delegation from the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), led by Prof. Dr. Sumaira Rehman. He noted that Türkiye and Pakistan already maintain strong cooperation in higher education, science, and technology, with increasing levels of student and academic mobility in recent years.

In a separate meeting, Özvar held talks with the Bulgarian Rectors’ Council delegation, led by Prof. Miglena Temelkova. Discussions focused on enhancing university cooperation, expanding joint and dual-degree programs, and promoting language education in both Turkish and Bulgarian.

The meetings reflect Türkiye’s broader efforts to expand its academic partnerships across Eurasia and beyond, positioning higher education as a key driver of international cooperation and long-term stability. (ILKHA)