The Heart of European Academia to Beat in Istanbul in 2026
The General Assembly and Annual Conference of the European University Association (EUA)—which brings together nearly 900 universities across Europe—will be held for the first time in Türkiye on April 16–17, 2026, hosted by Yeditepe University in Istanbul.
The conference, which brings together university leaders, rectors, senior executives, policymakers, and researchers, serves as a key platform for discussing the strategic issues shaping the future of higher education.Held annually in leading academic centers across Europe, the 29th edition of the EUA Annual Conference will focus on the theme “University Cooperation in a Changing Context.” Commenting on the event, Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman stated:“This year’s conference presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on how universities can renew and strengthen cooperation in the face of shifting political, technological, and social dynamics. I believe that the ideas generated and partnerships established here will guide higher education toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
EUA Representatives Visit Yeditepe University for Preparations
For conference preparations, EUA Deputy Secretary General Dr. Monika Steinel and Senior Events Officer Aurélie Clenet visited Yeditepe University.They met with Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ece Ceylan Baba, and Coordinator of International Academic Relations Prof. Dr. Yeşim Ekinci. The delegation also toured the conference venues. Additionally, they assessed the technical infrastructure and logistical arrangements.
“Yeditepe University’s International Vision Will Add Value to the Conference”
Following the visit, Dr. Monika Steinel said:For the European University Association, uniting members across countries fosters idea exchange and strengthens higher education collaboration. Yeditepe University’s dynamic structure and international outlook provide an ideal setting for the 2026 conference. Its global vision will add value. Istanbul’s history and academic energy will make this event memorable.
Aurélie Clenet added:
“We are pleased to see thatWe are pleased to see that preparations for the 2026 EUA General Assembly and Conference, hosted by Yeditepe University, are highly professional. The university’s robust technical infrastructure and the team’s precision are clear. Istanbul’s cultural richness further enhances the event. These strengths ensure the event will meet the highest standards. Hosting this prestigious gathering in Türkiye is a significant development for European higher education.n: “We Will Showcase Türkiye’s Scientific Strength to the World”
Commenting on the EUA delegation’s visit, Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman said:
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman: “We Will Introduce Türkiye’s Scientific Strength to the World”
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman also made the following assessment regarding the EUA delegation’s visit:
“It is a great source of pride for us that the EUA General Assembly and Conference will be held for the first time in Türkiye, at Yeditepe University. This visit was an important step in our preparation process. This organization, which will be hosted by our university, offers a major opportunity to present Türkiye’s academic strength and scientific potential on the international stage.
Türkiye has historically been at the crossroads of civilizations, ideas, and cultures. Its unique position connecting Europe and Asia has made it a place where dialogue, interaction, and cooperation naturally flourish. This deep-rooted tradition based on openness and connectedness continues to inspire our academic community and strongly aligns with this year’s conference theme, ‘University Cooperation in a Changing Context.’
This year’s conference presents a valuable opportunity to assess how universities can renew and strengthen cooperation in the face of changing political, technological, and social conditions. I believe the ideas to emerge here and the partnerships to be formed will guide higher education toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
EUA: The Largest Network in European Higher Education
The European University Association (EUA), which includes approximately 900 universities from more than 50 countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Portugal, is the largest academic network operating in Europe to enhance quality in higher education, develop research capacity, and strengthen inter-university cooperation.
The EUA General Assembly and Conference, held annually, brings together rectors, academics, policymakers, and researchers from Europe’s leading universities to discuss current trends, strategic priorities, and a forward-looking vision in higher education.
Türkiye Will Be at the Center of the European Academic World
The fact that the 29th EUA General Assembly and Conference, previously held in Europe’s leading academic centers, will be organized in Istanbul in 2026 is considered a historic step that will strengthen Türkiye’s international standing in science and education.
This prestigious organization also offers an important opportunity to introduce Türkiye’s higher education system, showcase its academic potential, and develop joint projects with universities in Europe. During the event, Türkiye’s scientific production capacity, research infrastructure, and opportunities for international cooperation will be highlighted, and new collaborations will be developed in areas such as strengthening academic exchange programs and increasing joint research funds.
It is anticipated that holding the event in Istanbul will bring significant gains for Türkiye not only academically but also in economic, cultural, and diplomatic terms.