Eskişehir Technical University’s European Visits Open New Avenues in Science and Technology

Eskişehir Technical University’s European Visits Open New Avenues in Science and Technology

Eskişehir Technical University (ESTÜ) is taking confident steps towards enhancing its international presence and strengthening collaborations in the field of science and technology through its European visits under the ESTÜ Prototype Center project, part of the European Union’s Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) program.

Led by Rector Prof. Dr. Adnan Özcan, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Onur Kaya, and ESTÜ Prototype Center Operation Coordination Unit Manager Prof. Dr. Tahir Hikmet Karakoç, the ESTÜ delegation conducted meetings with various research, innovation, and incubation centers, showcasing the ESTÜ Prototype Center and providing a general introduction to Eskişehir Technical University.

Professor Dr. Adnan Özcan, the Rector of Eskişehir Technical University, expressed his views on the visits, stating, “This comprehensive series of visits not only provides a strong network and opportunities for knowledge exchange on the international stage but also offers a significant learning experience for our university’s students and academics. These visits have contributed to our university’s presence not only in scientific research but also as a crucial actor in cultural and social interactions. We believe that these meetings, crucial for future projects and collaborations, represent a significant step in further enhancing Eskişehir Technical University’s international engagement.”

Collaboration opportunities for EU projects were discussed during meetings with the team led by Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Stamoulis at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS). Initiatives such as Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), Erasmus agreements, project planning, and collaboration opportunities for EU projects were extensively discussed. Future potential projects, including joint academic work and symposium organization, were also on the agenda.

The ESTÜ delegation visited the Amsterdam Consulate General to discuss strengthening science and education collaborations between Turkey and the Netherlands. The consulate visit marked a significant step in evaluating potential collaborations and student exchange programs between the two countries. Discussions also focused on potential projects aimed at playing a more active role in science diplomacy.

Meetings were conducted with Wim Peters, General Manager of Equipment & Prototype Center (EPC), during visits to Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and EPC. These discussions provided a comprehensive understanding of the work carried out in the fields of health, energy, and mobility, as well as insights into the overall functioning of EPC. Visits included facility tours, visual and tangible experiences of exemplary applications, and discussions on future projects.

Discussions with Abd-Samad Habbachi, CEO of Advanced Engineering Center and Tech Education Center, delved into the success stories and organizational structures of these centers. The achievements of A6K and E6K served as examples for the university, emphasizing that these institutions not only contribute technologically but also carry a social mission. These visits paved the way for creating a roadmap for potential collaborations in advanced technology and education.

During the visit to CETIC (Centre d’Excellence en Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication) in Charleroi, discussions with Stéphane Mouton and his team covered the expertise in information technologies and communication. The visit focused on CETIC’s involvement in significant projects for society, particularly in areas such as Big Data, Cloud Computing, and IoT. Discussions also took place on the notable achievements of CETIC in these fields and the university’s contributions.

The ESTÜ delegation explored potential model incubation centers in Amsterdam, Eindhoven, and Brussels during visits. These visits provided detailed information about the organizational structure, functioning, and systematics of incubation centers.

The delegation’s visit to the Turkish Embassy in Brussels aimed to evaluate academic collaborations and projects between Turkey and Belgium. The embassy visit underscored the determination of Eskişehir Technical University to strengthen potential partnerships and project collaborations with universities in Belgium. Discussions also revolved around potential joint projects in energy, environment, and engineering.

The final visit to the Brussels Representation of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) provided an opportunity to assess TOBB’s contributions to the national economy and business world. Discussions during this visit included evaluations of Turkey’s visibility activities in the EU and explored potential collaborations and projects with TOBB’s representation in Brussels.

These European visits by the ESTÜ delegation have not only expanded the university’s international network but have also laid the groundwork for strategic collaborations, fostering knowledge exchange, and creating opportunities for future projects and partnerships in science and technology.