UK-Türkiye Higher Education Dialogue: Advancing Internationalisation and Sustainable Development for Higher Education
In partnership with Istanbul Technical University
17 June 2025 | Istanbul Technical University, Ayazağa Campus
The British Council, in collaboration with Istanbul Technical University (ITU), is proud to host the second UK–Türkiye Higher Education Dialogue. This high-level forum brings together academic leaders, policy makers, and internationalisation experts from Türkiye, the UK, and beyond to explore new frontiers in global higher education.
This year’s Dialogue focuses on how higher education institutions can foster impactful internationalisation strategies and align academic collaborations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through four dynamic panel discussions, the forum will explore themes such as institutional leadership, joint degrees, artificial intelligence, and SDG-driven research.
Key Themes
- Leadership for Global Engagement
- How university leadership can shape internationalisation strategies aligned with global goals.
- Joint Degrees and SDG-Aligned Partnerships
- Exploring scalable models of international joint and dual degree programmes that contribute to sustainable development.
- Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Internationalisation
- The role of AI in redefining transnational education and innovative teaching practices.
- Developing Research with SDGs
- Sharing successful UK–Türkiye research collaborations addressing sustainability challenges.
Objectives
- Create ecosystems for collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Promote SDG-aligned education and research models
- Build capacity for international joint programmes and certifications
- Influence policy and institutional practices for global engagement
Expected Outcomes
- Publication of a detailed report with insights and policy recommendations
- Follow-up workshops and networking opportunities
- Strengthened UK–Türkiye higher education partnerships
Programme – 17 June 2025 (Tuesday)
Venue: Istanbul Technical University, Ayazağa Campus
Time |
Activity |
Details |
9.00 – 10.00 |
Registration and networking |
|
10.00 – 10.45 |
Opening remarks: |
|
10.45 – 11.30 |
Panel 1 35 min discussion |
"Developing Research with SDGs" Sharing best examples of UK-Türkiye joint research with a strong focus on SDGs Panellists: |
11.30 – 11.45 |
Tea break and networking |
|
11.45 – 12.30 |
Panel 2 35 min discussion |
“University Collaborations, Real-World Impact” Panellists: |
12.30 – 13.30 |
Lunch |
|
13.30 – 14.15 |
Panel 3 35 min discussion |
“Universities as Global Actors: Leadership Perspectives on SDG-Aligned Internationalisation" Exploring the strategic role of higher education institutions in advancing global goals. Panellists: |
14.15 – 14.30 |
Tea break and networking |
|
14.30 – 15.15 |
Panel 4 35 min discussion |
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Internationalisation: Redefining Transnational Education Partnerships and New Ways of Teaching Panellists: |
15.15 – 16.15 |
Wrap up / Closure |
Ayşen Güven MBE, Director Education, British Council |
17.00 – 18.30 |
Student Gathering |
Post-graduate Student Gathering with UK Universities |
Participating Institutions
- UK Universities: University of Liverpool, University of York, University of Hull, Royal Holloway University of London, Aberystwyth University, Ulster University, University of Nottingham, University of Lincoln, University of Worcester.
- Turkish Universities: Istanbul Technical University (ITU), TED University, Eskisehir Technical University, Boğaziçi University, Samsun University and others.