Number of students placed at EMU has increased; the number of foreign students has decreased: EMU Rector

Doğu Akdeniz University (DAÜ) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç evaluated key issues in higher education during his appearance on Kanal T’s program “Damla Dabis ile Yaz Sabahı”. 

Speaking with host Damla Dabis, Prof. Dr. Kılıç discussed university inflation, student enrollment figures, and DAÜ’s contributions to the national economy and social development.

Emphasizing that higher education is one of the country’s most vital sectors alongside tourism, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stressed the importance of structured planning in the sector. He underlined the need for institutions to define their vision, mission, and targets clearly. Addressing internal auditing, he noted that every university has a responsibility to maintain quality and accountability, warning that institutions operating solely with commercial motives often face challenges in this area.

Prof. Dr. Kılıç also highlighted that universities contribute not only economically and scientifically but also socially, underscoring the importance of accreditation as a means of ensuring international standards and oversight.

Increase in DAÜ Student Enrollment
Providing insights into DAÜ’s current student placement status, Prof. Dr. Kılıç noted that registrations are ongoing, with different processes for TRNC nationals and international students. While the number of students from Turkey placed through the Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS) has decreased due to the proliferation of foundation universities there, DAÜ has responded by introducing new programs aligned with contemporary needs and enhancing existing ones.

As a result, DAÜ recorded an increase in student placements compared to last year. On the other hand, Prof. Dr. Kılıç acknowledged a decline in international student numbers, describing it as a significant economic loss for the country. To address this, he called for stronger state policies and collaborative promotion efforts between the government and universities.

“DAÜ is the Flagship of Higher Education”
Underscoring DAÜ’s unique position in public perception, Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated: “I don’t think there is a single family in this country without a DAÜ graduate.” He described the institution as the “flagship of higher education” in the country.

Prof. Dr. Kılıç also pointed to DAÜ’s long-standing history, international accreditations, academic achievements, research activities, and future goals, reiterating the university’s central role in both economic growth and societal progress.