Türkiye has become a refuge for Sudanese students affected by the civil war, allowing them to study at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University. The Turkish Higher Education Council coordinated the ‘Guest University Initiative’ to help students from Al-Butana University continue their education. Amidst a humanitarian crisis and widespread displacement in Sudan, this initiative provides students with a safe environment and the opportunity to contribute to their country’s future upon returning.
Türkiye has emerged as a sanctuary for Sudanese students seeking educational opportunities after their academic lives were disrupted by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. With the coordination of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council, students from Al-Butana University have commenced their studies at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, enabling them to resume their educational endeavors.
The civil conflict in Sudan, triggered by clashes between the army and Rapid Support Forces, has wrought devastation, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis. Recent reports indicate more than 20,000 fatalities and over 3.5 million people displaced from the country, with approximately 9 million internally displaced and 25 million in dire need of assistance.
The war inflicted considerable damage to Al-Butana University’s infrastructure, thereby disrupting academic activities. In response, the Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research reached out to Türkiye’s Council of Higher Education to explore potential solutions. As a result, the ‘Guest University Initiative’ was mobilized to facilitate a partnership between Al-Butana University and Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, which successfully relocated 18 individuals, including faculty and students.
This initiative adopts a ‘university within a university’ model that ensures Sudanese students and academics can continue their education in a secure and conducive environment. It aims to equip these students to return home and contribute to Sudan’s development post-conflict.
Erol Ozvar, President of Türkiye’s Higher Education Council, highlighted that the initiative stemmed from Sudanese officials expressing the urgent need for educational continuity amidst the war, which had severely impacted numerous institutions. The proposal to host Sudanese universities was met with enthusiasm from Sudanese counterparts.
Ozvar further stated that a designated number of students and faculty have already commenced their studies at Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, with additional arrangements made for other Sudanese universities to operate under similar arrangements in Türkiye. This initiative serves as a model for educational collaboration and emphasizes Türkiye’s commitment to providing refuge to academic professionals in distress.
Al-Butana University’s Rector Mohmoud Yacob Mohmoud expressed his gratitude, emphasizing Türkiye’s historical ties to Sudan and acknowledging the help provided under these challenging circumstances. The opportunity for Sudanese academics to study in Türkiye allows for improved educational conditions and the possibility of enhancing Sudan’s education system upon their return.
Students such as Ferass Aiaaldeen Gahalrsoul Faragalla and Rashida Ebrahim Hussein have voiced their appreciation for the advanced learning opportunities available in Türkiye, noting the potential for acquiring critical skills that will benefit Sudan when they return. Their experiences underscore the importance of education in rebuilding and developing their home country, amidst the ongoing challenges of conflict.
In summary, Türkiye has stepped forward as a crucial ally for Sudanese students displaced by the civil war, providing a platform for them to continue their education and research. The ‘Guest University Initiative’ exemplifies a collaborative model that not only addresses the urgent needs of Sudan’s academic community but also fosters long-term contributions to the country’s development. Through this initiative, Türkiye affirms its commitment to educational excellence and humanitarian support, offering students hope for a better future.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
