“The Role of Local Authorities hold Strategic Importance for Students”
In his assessment ahead of the new academic year, Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç highlighted that thousands of students from Türkiye and across the globe will be coming to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), stressing that supporting students’ adaptation to city life is a shared responsibility of both universities and local municipalities.
Examples of Good Practices from Around the World
Underscoring the need to improve the relationship between universities and municipalities, Prof. Dr. Kılıç said: “Nowadays, cities across Europe, the United States, Australia, and Canada view students not just as guests but as active members of the community. For instance, Groningen in the Netherlands offers comprehensive guidance—from housing to transportation—through its annual ‘Welcome to Groningen’ program. Many UK cities, such as Manchester, tackle student challenges through collaborative partnerships between local governments, universities, and public transport authorities. In cities like Miami and Toronto, students enjoy significant advantages in both mobility and cultural activities”. EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated that similar practices are needed to be implemented in TRNC as well and made the following remarks:
“Universities shape the academic lives of our students, but the contribution of local authorities is essential for their full integration into our cities. While municipalities have occasionally provided support, these efforts have not yet reached the desired level. It is necessary to strengthen the collaboration between universities and municipalities and implement more joint projects. Student adaptation, social life, and acclimatization to local conditions cannot fall solely on universities. Municipalities must take a more active role in this responsibility. The role of local authorities should go beyond treating students as mere ‘guests’; they should act as a bridge that integrates students into city life, enhances their quality of life, and creates mutual benefits between the city and the university.
Possible Joint Projects
Prof. Dr. Kılıç listed examples for possible future collaborations that might be carried out between universities and municipalities:
- Student-Friendly City Program: City transportation is inadequate, and students require guides to help them navigate and adapt to urban life. Opportunities for participation in social activities should be offered free or at low cost, and the social environment should be made more vibrant to meet students’ expectations.
- Collaborations on Accommodation and Safety: Collaboration and oversight between municipalities and universities should support students and their families in housing matters. The active participation of local authorities instills confidence and assurance.
- Developing Cultural Integration Projects: Joint festivals, city tours, student-public meetings should be organized.
- Entrepreneurship and Employment Support: Municipalities should collaborate to provide students with internship and part-time work opportunities. While some municipalities have already taken initiative, others need to actively engage in these efforts as well.
Concrete Proposal: Collaborative Working Platform
Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç put forward a new recommendation, stating:
“Although local authorities contribute, their support remains insufficient. I therefore propose creating a ‘Universities and Municipalities Collaborative Working Platform’ that includes all municipalities. This platform would enable municipalities and universities to jointly take responsibility for students’ housing, transportation, safety, cultural engagement, and adaptation processes, ultimately strengthening higher education in the TRNC”.
“Happy Students, Thriving TRNC”
Concluding his remarks, Prof. Dr. Kılıç said: “As EMU, we are fulfilling our responsibilities, but for students to enjoy a safe and happy life in our cities, municipalities need to be actively engaged in the process. When universities and municipalities collaborate closely, it benefits the students, the cities, and the TRNC as a whole”.