Should Young People Stay in Türkiye or Go Abroad?
With only a few days left until the university entrance exam results are announced, millions of young people are preparing to make a decision that will shape their future. Alongside discussions about university preferences, another topic frequently on the agenda is the ongoing debate around brain drain.
In recent years, the growing trend of young people seeking opportunities abroad has become a prominent issue in educational and employment circles. While some students are looking for career prospects in other countries, questions about how Türkiye can benefit from its highly educated human capital continue to spark discussion.
Rector Durman: It Is Possible to Gain Global Experience While Studying in Türkiye!
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman called attention to the fact that this issue should not be seen merely as a matter of migration, but rather as a question of shaping young people’s future and fostering a sense of responsibility to contribute to their country. Rector Durman stated:
“Brain drain is, in fact, a natural outcome of our youth’s desire to realize their full potential. But young people should know that it is possible to pursue international opportunities while receiving a high-quality education within a strong university ecosystem in their own country. At this point, universities should serve as bridges that enable young people to develop competencies on a global scale and grow into global citizens who will contribute to their homeland.
Institutions with strong international networks offer students an education model that goes far beyond classroom instruction and is deeply integrated with the world.
Through double-degree programs, students can earn academic qualifications recognized in more than one country; and with exchange programs like Erasmus, they can take courses at different universities and develop intercultural communication skills. In addition, international research projects, joint internship opportunities, and language support programs allow students to gain global experience while studying in Türkiye.
This way, young people grow up rooted in their own culture while engaging confidently with the world.”
Educating Individuals Who Can Think on a Global Scale…
Studies show that during the university preference period, students consider not just academic programs, but also international connections, internship opportunities, and access to global networks. In this context, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman drew attention to the importance of making thoughtful choices and continued:
“Young people should become familiar with the world — they need to learn foreign languages, engage with different cultures, and develop new skills. Being competent in a single area is no longer enough. Today’s students must be able to navigate across multiple disciplines, build technological literacy for the digital age, and strengthen their abilities in critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. These goals can be achieved through strong universities in Türkiye that provide such opportunities. Studying abroad is one path — but it is not the only one. Institutions with well-established international ties do more than prepare students for a career. They help cultivate the vision and capabilities needed to succeed in a global environment. In doing so, they empower young people to bring back their knowledge, experiences, and contributions to benefit their home country.
Being a global citizen involves more than mobility; it also means using one’s education and efforts to add value at home. Our youth is Türkiye’s greatest strength. Preparing this generation to take its place on the world stage is a responsibility we all share.
Developing individuals who can think globally is essential for sustainable development and meaningful social progress.”
“Choosing a University Is Choosing a Vision for Life”
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman concluded his remarks with the following words: “Choosing a university is not simply about enrolling in a four-year program — it is about shaping a vision for one’s life. When our young people choose universities in Türkiye with strong international ties and open themselves to the world, it becomes one of the most valuable gains for our country.”