Public opinion survey on Higher Education in Northern Cyprus revealed: EMU regarded as the best university in north Cyprus

Famagusta, North Cyprus — The Eastern Mediterranean University Academic Staff Union (DAÜ-SEN) has released the results of a comprehensive public opinion survey aimed at gauging societal perceptions and attitudes toward higher education in Northern Cyprus. 

The findings were presented at a press conference held by the union on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, DAÜ-SEN President Dr. Ercan Hoşkara emphasized the ongoing challenges in the higher education sector, noting, “Among the most pressing issues are debates around academic quality and the growing concern over fake diplomas.”

Dr. Hoşkara stated that the union took the initiative to conduct the research independently, addressing a gap left by government inaction. “Our primary goal was to gain a clearer understanding of public perceptions regarding higher education,” he said.

Public Largely Unaware of Number of Universities

The survey was conducted with a sample of 700 voters. Respondents were asked which university they regarded as the best in Northern Cyprus. Eastern Mediterranean University (DAÜ) led the rankings with 53.7%, followed by Near East University (YDÜ) at 28.9%. Other institutions, including Girne American University (GAÜ), Cyprus International University (UKÜ), European University of Lefke (LAÜ), and Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ), scored between 4.9% and 2.2%. “In total, only six universities are perceived by the public as having a high academic standing,” said Hoşkara.

Despite the existence of 23 universities officially recognized by the Higher Education Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation, and Coordination Council (YÖDAK), Dr. Hoşkara highlighted a general lack of public awareness regarding the actual number of institutions.

DAÜ Seen as Most Reliable and High-Quality Institution

When asked which universities were most recognized, respondents again cited DAÜ and YDÜ as the leading institutions. “Beyond these six universities, there is virtually no public perception of the others,” noted Hoşkara. DAÜ also ranked first in both “most reliable” and “highest quality” university categories, with YDÜ coming in second.

Widespread Concerns Over Diploma Fraud

One of the most alarming findings was the public’s perception of fake diploma incidents. “According to the survey, 57% of respondents believe that diploma fraud is either widespread or very widespread,” Hoşkara said, calling this perception “a significant threat to the integrity of higher education.”

The survey also evaluated public familiarity with YÖDAK. While 49.5% of respondents were aware of the council, only 25.1% believed it was effectively conducting inspections. Furthermore, 29.8% of those surveyed expressed a lack of trust in YÖDAK.

Emphasis on Quality Over Quantity

When asked about the future of higher education in Northern Cyprus, a strong majority—70%—believed that universities should prioritize quality over student numbers. “This shows a clear societal demand for a shift toward academic excellence and integrity,” Hoşkara concluded.

DAÜ-SEN's findings underline the urgent need for reforms and increased transparency in the higher education sector, as well as a reevaluation of regulatory practices to restore public trust.