Amid the civil war in Sudan, students from Al-Butana University are being hosted at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University in Türkiye through a supportive initiative by the Turkish Council of Higher Education. This program allows Sudanese students to continue their education in a safe environment as they prepare to return and contribute to their country following the conflict. The initiative showcases Türkiye’s commitment to international academic collaboration and humanitarian support.
Türkiye has emerged as a safe educational refuge for Sudanese students impacted by the ongoing civil war. Many students from Al-Butana University in Sudan are now continuing their education at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University through the Turkish Council of Higher Education’s ‘Guest Universities Initiative.’ This initiative allows Sudanese students to pursue their studies in a stable environment after educational disruptions due to war-related destruction in their home institutions.
Since the conflict began on April 15, 2023, Sudan has seen violent clashes that have resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including widespread displacement and fatalities, with over 25 million people requiring urgent humanitarian assistance. The civil war has severely affected Sudan’s education sector, leading the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to contact Türkiye seeking solutions to continue educational activities for displaced students.
In response, Türkiye’s Council of Higher Education quickly established the “Guest University Initiative,” facilitating a partnership between Al-Butana University and Nigde Omer Halisdemir University. This effort has allowed 18 Sudanese nationals, including faculty and students, to relocate, ensuring that they can continue their academic pursuits and contribute positively to Sudanese development upon their return.
Erol Ozvar, President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council, emphasized the importance of supporting Sudanese institutions affected by the war, stating that the goal was to prevent university closures. He noted that this initiative provides a unique, collaborative framework for Sudanese students to access quality education while ensuring their eventual return to serve their homeland.
Ozvar further communicated Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to supporting scholars from across the globe. He noted, “This country is also a place of peace, where scientists can pursue their education, research and academic endeavors in a safe and supportive environment.”
Al-Butana University’s rector, Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud, recognized Türkiye’s swift response during a time of crisis, highlighting the serious challenges faced in Sudan, including ineffective online learning transitions due to resource shortages. He expressed sincere gratitude to Türkiye for being the first to respond to Sudan’s academic needs.
Sudanese students like Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla and Rashida Ebrahim Hussein shared their aspirations of gaining advanced knowledge and practical skills during their time in Türkiye. They are eager to apply their learning to enhance Sudan’s education and agricultural sectors, showcasing a resolve to positively impact their home country after completing their studies.
Türkiye’s educational initiative exemplifies a supportive response to a humanitarian crisis, enabling Sudanese students to continue their studies amidst civil turmoil. By hosting displaced students, Türkiye demonstrates a commitment to international academic cooperation and the importance of education in rebuilding efforts. The collaborative framework established ensures both immediate educational opportunities and future contributions to Sudan’s development, reflecting a broader commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity. Key figures in Türkiye’s higher education system foresee significant contributions from these students post-graduation, continuing a legacy of empowerment through education.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
