The International University of Sarajevo (IUS) hosted a distinguished delegation from the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality during an official visit led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tahir Büyükakın, Mayor of Kocaeli, Türkiye. The visit provided a valuable occasion for meaningful dialogue and the exchange of views on areas of shared interest.
The delegation was welcomed by Mr. Hasan Topaloğlu, President of the Foundation for Education Development Sarajevo (SEDEF); Mr. Armin Kerić, Director of the SEDEF Foundation; Mr. Mehmet Akif Yaman, Member of the IUS Board of Trustees; Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakcı, Rector of IUS; Assoc. Prof. Muhammed Yasir Göz, Vice-Rector for General Affairs; and Mr. İbrahim İnal, Secretary General.
The meeting focused on the importance of closer cooperation between public institutions and the higher education sector, particularly in areas that can support academic growth, institutional development, and broader community benefit. Participants exchanged ideas on possible forms of future collaboration, emphasizing the value of partnerships built on mutual understanding, shared goals, and long-term vision.
Particular attention was given to the role that universities and local authorities can play in creating opportunities for young people, encouraging innovation, and supporting the transfer of knowledge and experience. In this context, the visit opened space for discussing initiatives that could bring practical and lasting value both to students and to the wider social environment.
The exchange also reaffirmed the importance of international institutional connections in today’s rapidly changing world. Strengthening such relationships contributes not only to the advancement of education, but also to the development of constructive cooperation that can lead to impactful projects and stronger inter-institutional ties.
The International University of Sarajevo extends its sincere appreciation to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tahir Büyükakın and the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality delegation for their visit. IUS remains committed to fostering dialogue and looks forward to future cooperation opportunities that may emerge from this meaningful meeting.
