Evaluation Meeting on Joint Initiatives Held Between IGU and Avcılar Municipality

A comprehensive evaluation meeting was held between Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) and Avcılar Municipality with the aim of strengthening university–local government cooperation, diversifying areas of joint work, and implementing projects focused on social benefit. The meeting, attended by approximately 30 participants, was joined by Avcılar Deputy Mayor Yüksel Can, Deputy Mayors of Avcılar, and representatives of relevant municipal departments. Istanbul Gelisim University was represented by Rector Prof. Bahri Şahin; Vice Rectors Prof. Nuri Kuruoğlu, Prof. Necmettin Maraşlı, and Prof. Arda Öztürkcan; IGU Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Serdar Egeli; as well as academic and administrative unit representatives.

The Importance of University–Local Government Cooperation Emphasized

In the opening session of the meeting, the importance of university–local government cooperation within contemporary urban governance and higher education was emphasized. It was underlined that universities are not merely educational institutions, but also centers that generate social, cultural, and academic value for the cities in which they are located. In this context, views were exchanged on developing a more holistic and sustainable relationship between the university and the city.
During the meeting, potential areas of cooperation between the two institutions were evaluated through a multidimensional approach. Joint activities in education, cultural and artistic events, social responsibility projects, and social awareness initiatives were among the main agenda items. Proposals aimed at enabling students to actively participate in local government projects were also discussed.

Academic Capacity and Its Contribution to Local Government Processes

The meeting highlighted that Istanbul Gelisim University’s academic capacity—spanning social sciences, engineering, health sciences, communication, and cultural studies—could play a supportive role in Avcılar Municipality’s planning, implementation, and evaluation processes. It was emphasized that the university’s interdisciplinary structure represents significant potential for providing scientific contributions to local government practices.
To ensure that the cooperation process is carried out effectively, sustainably, and in a results-oriented manner, the proposal to establish a joint commission consisting of representatives from both Istanbul Gelisim University and Avcılar Municipality was brought to the agenda. This planned commission was discussed as a mechanism to ensure coordination between the two institutions, monitor the planning and implementation of joint projects, develop solutions to potential needs and challenges during implementation, and ensure that cooperation activities progress within an institutional framework.

Social Responsibility and Sustainability-Oriented Initiatives Discussed

Joint initiatives in the field of social responsibility were also discussed in detail during the meeting. It was stated that projects targeting disadvantaged groups, educational and cultural activities for young people, and practices focused on environmental awareness and sustainability could create a strong impact within the scope of university–municipality cooperation.

Aiming for Institutional and Sustainable Cooperation

In the closing session of the meeting, expectations were expressed regarding the advancement of relations between the two institutions toward a more institutionalized, systematic, and sustainable structure. It was stated that, by increasing mutual communication and coordination, the implementation of projects monitored and evaluated through the joint commission is targeted.
This comprehensive meeting is expected not only to serve as a good practice example of university–local government cooperation, but also to contribute to effective and efficient cooperation models that can be established between academia and public institutions. The process initiated between Istanbul Gelisim University and Avcılar Municipality is planned to continue in the coming period with concrete projects, institutionalized mechanisms, and formal collaborations.

An Exemplary Approach to University–City Integration from IGU

Istanbul Gelisim University draws attention with its collaborations with local governments and public institutions in line with its higher education vision centered on social contribution, supported by a strong academic staff and an interdisciplinary approach. Through its high-quality work in education, research, and social responsibility, IGU aims not only for academic excellence but also to contribute to the development of the city and society in which it is located. With its approach based on university–city integration, IGU presents an exemplary model in higher education.