Within the scope of the Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility (ICM) Program, a delegation from Uganda Christian University (UCU) visited Aksaray University (ASU). The delegation included UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, Director for Research, Partnerships and Innovation Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito, Quality Assurance Coordinator Sarah Kizza Nkambwe, and Dean of Engineering Faculty Miria Frances Agunyo. The group was welcomed by ASU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpay Arıbaş.

Also present at the official meeting were ASU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Erşan Sever, International Relations Coordinator Prof. Dr. Melayib Bilgin, Prof. Dr. Emre Arslan, and members of the International Office. Discussions focused on expanding academic cooperation, including increasing student and staff mobility, launching joint research projects, and enhancing collaboration at the doctoral level across various fields—particularly medicine, engineering, and sports sciences.

A Rich Program: From Labs to Workshops

The UCU delegation engaged in an intensive program throughout their visit. They toured several academic units on campus, including engineering and health science laboratories, where they received briefings on ongoing research initiatives.

In interactive workshops organized with the participation of ASU faculty, ideas were exchanged on digital education practices, innovative research methodologies, and sustainable teaching models. The visit also marked the beginning of joint academic initiatives, as faculty members from both universities met to discuss potential collaborative projects and publications.

Cultural Engagement and Academic Synergy

In addition to academic activities, the UCU guests were introduced to the cultural and historical richness of Aksaray. They attended traditional music performances and folk dance shows, enhancing the cultural dimension of the exchange. The visit concluded with a dinner hosted in honor of the UCU delegation, where both sides expressed their intentions to deepen academic and cultural ties.

ASU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpay Arıbaş emphasized:
“This partnership with Uganda Christian University will open up valuable opportunities for both our students and academic staff. International collaboration and knowledge sharing play a vital role in our institutional development.”

Such international engagements are expected to contribute significantly to ASU’s visibility and integration within global academic networks, in line with its internationalization strategy.