Yeditepe University to Host the European University Association (EUA) General Assembly!
Yeditepe University to Host the European University Association (EUA) General Assembly!
Türkiye is preparing to host one of Europe’s most significant academic gatherings: the General Assembly of the European University Association (EUA). To be held on 16–17 April 2026 in Istanbul, the event will take place under the auspices of Yeditepe University and is widely regarded as one of the most influential forums shaping higher education policy across Europe.
EUA: Europe’s Largest Academic Network
With more than 850 member universities from over 50 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Portugal, the European University Association stands as one of the foremost organizations dedicated to advancing academic quality and scientific research in higher education.
Committed to strengthening inter-university cooperation and reinforcing higher education systems, the EUA convenes its General Assembly annually, bringing together university rectors, senior academics, and education policymakers from across Europe to deliberate on the most pressing issues in higher education and to set strategic priorities for the future.
Türkiye at the Heart of the European Academic Community
Hosting the EUA General Assembly in Istanbul at Yeditepe University is viewed as a major milestone that further reinforces Türkiye’s international standing in higher education. Traditionally held in Europe’s leading academic hubs, the decision to organize the 2026 General Assembly in Türkiye is a clear indication of the country’s growing integration into the global scientific and educational landscape.
Yeditepe University Rector Mehmet Durman emphasized that hosting the EUA General Assembly is a source of great pride for Türkiye, stating:
“In recent years, Türkiye has taken significant steps to strengthen international collaboration in higher education. Hosting the EUA General Assembly in Istanbul is a clear reflection of this upward trajectory. This event offers a unique opportunity for young academics and students alike. Engaging with university leaders and scientists from across Europe will open new avenues for collaborative research projects.
Istanbul has historically been a center of science, art, and culture. As a unique city bridging Europe and Asia, it holds a special appeal for the international academic community. Holding the EUA General Assembly here will further enhance Istanbul’s contribution to global academia.
At Yeditepe University, our aim is to showcase Türkiye’s scientific capacity to the world and to build even stronger ties with academic communities across Europe. Since our establishment, international collaboration has been among our top priorities, and we have developed academic partnerships with numerous European universities. By hosting the EUA General Assembly, we intend to advance these collaborations further and make a lasting contribution to Türkiye’s higher education system.”
The Significance of the EUA General Assembly for Türkiye
The organization of the EUA General Assembly in Istanbul will bring substantial benefits to Türkiye not only academically, but also economically and culturally. Hundreds of rectors, academics, and education policymakers from across Europe are expected to travel to Istanbul for the event, creating a valuable platform to showcase Türkiye’s academic potential and scientific achievements.
Moreover, the Assembly will lay the groundwork for new collaborations, including joint university projects, strengthened academic exchange programs, and expanded research funding opportunities, thereby fostering long-term partnerships that will contribute to the continued development of higher education in Türkiye and beyond.