Turkmenistan’s Deputy Consul Visits Doğuş University: A New Chapter in Bilateral Cooperation
On November 7, 2025, the Deputy Consul General of the Republic of Turkmenistan, Mr. Merdan Mustakov, arrived in Istanbul to meet with Doğuş University’s leadership. The meeting—conducted by Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Alkan Çelik and Vice‑Rector Prof. Dr. Erkut Altındağ—focused on building stronger academic collaboration and cultural exchange between Turkey and Turkmenistan. This visit signals a commitment to deepen ties, expand research partnerships, and enhance student mobility.
Academic Cooperation: From Joint Research to Dual‑Degree Programs
During the talks, the university’s scholars and Turkmen counterparts outlined concrete plans for joint research projects, especially in the fields of engineering, business administration, and environmental science. The institutional agreement will:
- Facilitate faculty exchanges and collaborative publications.
- Establish joint PhD supervision for selected disciplines.
- Create dual‑degree certificates that recognize credits earned in both countries.
These initiatives not only raise Doğuş University’s standing in international research but also attract students seeking hands‑on experience working on transnational challenges.
Investing in research partnerships amplifies the university’s contribution to global knowledge while using local expertise to address regional issues.
How Students Benefit from Expanded Research Opportunities
Students enrolled in graduate and postgraduate programmes stand to gain first‑hand exposure to international projects. Participating in these endeavors can:
- Provide access to funding from Turkish and Turkmen research councils.
- Offer mentorship from distinguished scholars across borders.
- Boost CVs with internationally signed publications and conference presentations.
Proactive engagement in these projects can also ease the pathway to a permanent academic role or industry appointments abroad.
Cultural Exchanges: Bridging Communities Through Language and Arts
Beyond research, the meeting underscored cultural collaboration. Planned activities include:
- Turkmen cultural festivals hosted on Doğuş campuses.
- Student cultural exchange programs that immerse participants in traditional practices and languages.
- Collaborative art exhibitions that showcase contemporary works from both nations.
The university’s existing language and cultural departments are well‑positioned to integrate Turkmen language modules, preparing students for future work in both countries.
Enriching The Student Experience
Engagement in cultural activities enhances soft‑skills—cross‑cultural communication, adaptability, and global awareness. These competencies are prized by employers in an increasingly interconnected workforce.
Institutional Milestones and Future Roadmap
Doğuş University’s trajectory in international relations has been marked by continuous growth:
- Established an International Office that continually updates student visa information and bilateral agreements.
- Maintained active participation in Erasmus+ and other European mobility programmes.
- Launched an online portal for scholarship application, easing access for international students.
The Turkmenistan partnership will serve as a strategic node for further expansion toward Central Asian and Middle Eastern collaboration.
What Comes Next?
Within the next 12 months, the university plans to:
- Finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education in Turkmenistan.
- Announce a joint scholarship fund for Turkish and Turkmen postgraduate students.
- Organize a bilateral student conference on sustainable development.
These steps will lay the groundwork for both academic progress and cultural enrichment.
Implications for Prospective International Students
Students from Turkey, Turkmenistan, and beyond should note the following benefits:
- Eligibility for dual‑degree recognition, potentially shortening the time to a PhD.
- Increased scholarship opportunities funded by joint Turkish‑Turkmen initiatives.
- Expanded networking events linking emerging professionals across borders.
Future collaborations may also unlock internship placements within state‑run and private enterprises that operate transnationally, giving students practical exposure that propels their careers.
How to Get Involved: Steps for Students and Scholars
- Visit the International Office page to review current MoUs and partnership details.
- Check the university’s Course Catalog for international electives tied to the Turkmen partnership.
- Apply for the Dual‑Degree Program through the online application portal.
- Register for the upcoming Turkmen Cultural Festival on campus—free admission for students.
- Contact the research departments that are launching joint projects to see if there are available research assistant positions.
Call to Action
Explore Doğuş University’s international programs and discover opportunities to study and work across Turkey and Turkmenistan.
Schedule a consultation with the International Office to learn about upcoming scholarship packages and visa requirements.
Have questions about the new partnership or want to share how international experiences have impacted your career? Write to us!
We invite you to follow our updates on Instagram, Twitter, and our Facebook page for the latest news on academic and cultural exchanges.
Apply for admission now to join a university that is actively shaping the future of Turkish‑Turkmen collaboration.
Share Your Experience
If you have participated in a similar partnership or are part of the Turkish‑Turkmen academic community, leave a comment below to share insights and foster dialogue.
