A First for Türkiye: A Pioneering Agreement that Expands the Frontiers of Education
A landmark cooperation agreement has been signed between the International Baccalaureate (IB), Yeditepe University, and İSTEK Schools, marking a major step forward in Türkiye’s contribution to global education.
The signing ceremony, held in The Hague, the Netherlands, represents the first-ever strategic partnership between the IB and a Turkish university. Through this collaboration, Türkiye gains greater visibility and influence within the IB’s global network.
This newly developed model integrates the IB’s traditionally school-based programs into a unified university–school framework for the first time, bringing together teacher education, academic research, and certification processes under one roof.
The agreement aims to offer students world-class learning opportunities, strengthen teachers’ professional development, and expand Türkiye’s contribution to international education.
A Strategic Step Toward Universal Education
Operating across 22 campuses nationwide, İSTEK Schools has been a pioneer in expanding International Baccalaureate (IB) education in Türkiye through the implementation of the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). Under the new agreement, İSTEK Schools will continue to lead the implementation of IB programs, while Yeditepe University takes on the role of the primary partner in teacher education and academic research.
This collaboration unites İSTEK Schools’ extensive K–12 educational experience with Yeditepe University’s academic expertise and guidance. Furthermore, Yeditepe University will play an active role in Career-related Study (CRS) programs, which prepare students for the professional world alongside their academic studies. Through this initiative, Yeditepe University contributes to international CRS-based education models that integrate academic knowledge with real-world skills.
The First Integrated University–School IB Teacher Education Model
Authorized in 2020, Yeditepe University became the first Turkish university to offer the IB Educator Certificate. Since then, numerous teachers and teacher candidates have successfully completed the program.
In collaboration with İSTEK Schools, Yeditepe University has developed an integrated university–school IB teacher education model that bridges theory and practice. This model enables teacher candidates to observe real IB classrooms and participate in lesson implementation, combining academic coursework with hands-on teaching experience in the field.
Globally Minded and Inquisitive Minds
As one of the first institutions in Türkiye to embrace the IB vision, İSTEK Schools continues to strengthen its leadership in the field through sustained investment in teacher and student development. With the new agreement, 26 additional IB programs have been launched. Supported by Yeditepe University’s academic expertise, this model allows teachers to directly experience the IB philosophy and helps students grow into inquisitive, analytical, and globally minded individuals.
Worldwide Certification
In 2024, Yeditepe University received authorization to offer the IB Educator Certificate for the Primary Years Programme (PYP). Beginning in the 2025–2026 academic year, this certification has been integrated into the English Language Teaching, Mathematics Teaching, Psychological Counseling and Guidance, and Special Education programs. With this authorization, Yeditepe University has become one of the pioneering institutions in Türkiye to offer the IB Educator Certificate at the PYP level, aiming to equip future teachers with internationally recognized qualifications and competencies.
Empowering the Teachers and Students of the Future
Through this collaboration, hundreds of teachers and students are joining a new generation of educators who embrace innovation and a global mindset. Yeditepe University graduates go on to work at leading IB schools both in Türkiye and abroad, while İSTEK graduates stand out for their research skills, multicultural awareness, and sense of global citizenship. As Türkiye’s first integrated university–school IB teacher education model, this initiative ensures quality and sustainability in teacher training.
Messages from the Leaders on the Collaboration
The signing ceremony was attended by Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate (IB); Haif Banayan, IB Representative; Deniz Eralp, Advisor to the Chairman of the Board and Founding Representative of İSTEK Schools; and Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman, Rector of Yeditepe University.
Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General, International Baccalaureate (IB):
“Our partnership with Yeditepe University and İSTEK Schools will shape the future of education not only in Türkiye but across the region. This collaboration will expand world-class learning opportunities and create sustainable pathways for teacher development.”
Deniz Eralp, Advisor to the Chairman of the Board and Founding Representative, İSTEK Schools:
“For over four decades, İSTEK Schools has played a pioneering role in innovative, student-centered education. This partnership with the International Baccalaureate and Yeditepe University takes our vision one step further.”
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman, Rector, Yeditepe University:
“Education today transcends national boundaries. This collaboration marks a first in Türkiye. Bringing together a university, a network of schools, and the International Baccalaureate under one roof opens new horizons for our teachers and students, while expanding our country’s impact on international education.”
Strengthening Türkiye’s Impact in International Education
This tripartite collaboration strengthens Türkiye’s vision for inclusive, modern, and innovative education while creating new opportunities for students, teachers, researchers, and educational leaders. In doing so, it further reinforces Türkiye’s position as a pioneering and system-shaping country in international education.