A cooperation protocol was signed between Marmara University and the Turkish National Agency within the scope of the “Master's Program in Youth Studies.” The protocol, which aims to increase academic and practical opportunities for graduate students in youth studies, was implemented with a ceremony held on April 30, 2026, at the Dr. İbrahim Üzümcü Conference Hall on the Göztepe Campus.
The program drew significant attention with a wide range of participants, including academics, students, and institutional representatives. The opening speeches were delivered by the Rector of Marmara University, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur, and the Director of the Turkish National Agency, İlker Astarcı. It was announced that the “Master's Program in Youth Studies” will operate under the Institute of Population and Social Research. Within the program, students are expected to engage more actively in projects, research, and international collaborations by working closely with field experts.
Rector Okur Emphasizes Strategic Cooperation in the Field of Youth
Beginning his speech by underlining the importance of cooperation in the field of youth studies and the contributions of graduate education to this area, Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur emphasized that the signed protocol is not an ordinary partnership, but rather a strategic step capable of producing strong and effective outcomes in the field of youth. Stating that Türkiye is in a period where global balances are being reshaped, Rector Okur pointed out that the most critical element in this process is qualified human resources. Expressing that the collaboration between the University and the Turkish National Agency has the potential to produce tangible and effective outputs in a short time, Prof. Dr. Okur stated that this master's program will serve the country's future by providing scientific and institutional contributions to youth work. Rector Okur also noted that this cooperation is a meaningful step within the global struggle for values and power.
An Education Model Based on International Experience in Youth Studies
Speaking within the scope of the signed protocol, President of the Turkish National Agency İlker Astarcı emphasized that the program represents an important step toward institutionalization and academic depth in the field of youth studies. Stating that Türkiye reaches approximately 60,000 young people every year through projects such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, Director Astarcı expressed that this cooperation will further strengthen youth studies on a scientific basis. Drawing attention to the changing global dynamics, İlker Astarcı said that preparing young people for global competition is of critical importance and that this program will contribute to raising a qualified workforce.
Director Astarcı mentioned that best practices in countries such as Finland and Malta were examined, and stated that this master's program to be implemented in Türkiye is a strategic study capable of shaping youth policies.
The signed protocol was introduced as a comprehensive cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening youth studies in Türkiye and contributing to the training of qualified human resources. The ceremony concluded with a photo session following the signing of the protocol.
