Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University (FSMVU) continues to expand its international engagement through institutional partnerships and outreach across Europe. As part of this ongoing effort, Rector Prof. Dr. Nevzat Simsek visited a number of institutions and organisations in Cologne, Germany, holding meetings focused on international student mobility, educational cooperation, and potential initiatives supporting the Turkish community in Europe.
Strengthening Institutional Engagement in Europe
The programme began with a visit to the Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Cologne, where Prof. Dr. Nevzat Simsek met with Consul General Huseyin Kantem Al. The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce FSMVU’s academic programmes and discuss the educational opportunities available to international students. The Rector also met with Ramazan Ilikkan, President of the Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs (DITIB), and members of his delegation. Discussions included FSMVU’s Faculty of Islamic Sciences, particularly its Arabic-medium academic structure and educational activities, as well as potential areas for future cooperation.
Exploring Opportunities for International Students
At the Islamic Community Milli Gorus (IGMG) headquarters, Prof. Dr. Nevzat Simsek met with Dr. Abdulhalim Inam, Deputy Chairman and Head of Education, to discuss international student demand and expectations in Western Europe, as well as potential areas for joint engagement. The programme also included a meeting with Ali Pasa Akbas, President of the Federation of Turkish-Islamic Cultural Associations (ATIB). Discussions focused on potential initiatives for Turkish youth in Germany, with particular emphasis on education, cultural awareness, and the development of well-equipped young people who remain connected to their cultural heritage. During the IGMG visit, Furkan Kahraman, President of the IGMG Youth Organisation and an FSMVU Faculty of Islamic Sciences graduate, presented Prof. Dr. Nevzat Simsek with a commemorative gift.
Advancing Turkish Language Education
A meeting with Prof. Dr. Nurettin Gemici, Director of the Yunus Emre Institute Cologne Cultural Centre, focused on the international role of the Turkish language and opportunities to support and further develop Turkish language education. The meeting also included an exchange of ideas on the possibility of organising a joint symposium, creating a potential platform for academic exchange and collaboration in the field of Turkish language and culture.
Exploring New Educational Partnerships
Prof. Dr. Nevzat Simsek also met with Dr. Selman Dilek, Germany Country Representative of the Türkiye Maarif Foundation, to discuss educational activities serving the Turkish community in Germany and potential areas for future joint projects. The series of meetings in Cologne provided a valuable platform for FSMVU to strengthen its relationships with European stakeholders, expand its international student outreach, and explore new opportunities for educational and institutional cooperation. Building on these engagements, FSMVU remains committed to developing sustainable international partnerships, expanding opportunities for its students, and strengthening its presence within the broader European higher education landscape.
