Turkey has become a refuge for Sudanese students whose education was disrupted by the civil war. Under the Turkish Council of Higher Education’s “Guest University Initiative,” students from Al-Butana University are continuing their academic studies at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. This initiative aims to prepare students to return to Sudan post-conflict, contributing to their home country’s future development.
Turkey has emerged as a vital educational sanctuary for Sudanese students and scholars whose academic pursuits were derailed by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. The Turkish Council of Higher Education is facilitating the relocation of students from Al-Butana University to Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, allowing them to continue their studies in a safe and supportive environment.
Since the outbreak of violent conflicts in Sudan on April 15, 2023, the situation has deteriorated, leading to mass displacements and a humanitarian crisis. The conflict has resulted in over 20,000 fatalities and left millions in desperate need of aid as educational institutions, including Al-Butana University, have been severely affected.
To address these challenges, the Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education initiated contact with Turkey’s higher education authorities, seeking solutions for the disrupted academic activities. The Turkish Council of Higher Education promptly launched the “Guest University Initiative,” enabling a cohort from Al-Butana University, including faculty and students, to continue their education in Turkey.
The initiative allows Sudanese academics and students to pursue their studies under the “university within a university” model, ensuring that they can complete their education in a conducive setting. The goal is to prepare these individuals to return and contribute to Sudan’s development after the restoration of peace.
During discussions with Sudanese representatives, Turkey expressed that closing universities was not an option due to the importance of education. The Turkish authorities proposed hosting students from three of Sudan’s prominent universities to ensure continuity in academic programs amidst the conflict.
Erol Özvar, President of Turkey’s Higher Education Council, highlighted the commitment towards maintaining educational access for international students and emphasized the potential contributions of Sudanese graduates to their homeland. He stated, “We do not want universities to shut down. Our aim was to ensure that Sudanese students and academics could continue their education.”
Sudanese Rector Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud expressed gratitude toward Turkey for offering vital educational opportunities. He remarked on the profound impacts that the civil war had on Sudan’s educational infrastructure and emphasized the need for continued efforts to support student learning.
Students, including Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla and Rashida Ebrahim Hussein, expressed their appreciation for the chance to study in advanced facilities in Turkey. They both expressed their commitment to bringing the knowledge gained back to Sudan to aid in the country’s development efforts.
In summary, Turkey is playing a crucial role as a refuge for Sudanese students affected by the civil war, enabling them to resume their educational journeys. Initiatives such as the “Guest University Initiative” are essential in providing safe and effective learning environments, allowing Sudanese students to prepare for future contributions to their nation. This collaborative effort highlights Turkey’s dedication to supporting international education during crises.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
