Bahcesehir University, (BAU) in line with its vision of being “a leading university with strong international recognition, committed to excellence in education, research, and contributions to society,” and its mission of “producing, preserving, and disseminating knowledge that enhances the quality of life, educating global citizens through contemporary education models, and contributing to society at local and global levels through strategic collaborations,” recognizes lifelong learning as one of its strategic priorities.
The University affirms that lifelong learning is not only a means of personal and professional development but also a critical tool for advancing social equity and equal opportunity. All lifelong learning activities are conducted within an inclusive framework that prohibits any form of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, language, political opinion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, health status, disability, immigration status, socioeconomic background, or any other protected characteristic.
Bahçeşehir University’s Continuing Education Center (BAUSEM) — together with the University’s faculties, research centers, institutes, and other academic units — serves as the key institutional structure for implementing this approach. These entities collaboratively design, deliver, and continuously improve lifelong learning programs that strengthen individuals’ personal development, professional competencies, and capacity for societal contribution. Programs are structured to be accessible, flexible, quality-assured, and relevant to all segments of society.
Guiding Principles of the Lifelong Learning Policy
1. Equitable and Inclusive Access
Ensuring that all individuals have equal access to lifelong learning opportunities, with zero tolerance for discrimination or exclusion in any form.
2. Flexible and Diverse Learning Models
Offering a variety of program formats — face-to-face, online, and hybrid — both short-term and long-term, including certificate programs, workshops, seminars, and conferences, designed to meet the diverse needs and priorities of participants.
3. Societal Engagement and Social Responsibility
Extending the University’s educational resources beyond enrolled students to serve the broader community, integrating lifelong learning with the goals of social responsibility and public service.
4. Technological and Pedagogical Infrastructure
Applying technological, digital, and pedagogical standards that enhance accessibility, interaction, and learning quality, ensuring that both physical and online environments are fully accessible.
5. Continuous Improvement and Needs Assessment
Regularly assessing the learning needs of different community groups and using the findings to refine program content, delivery methods, and accessibility mechanisms.
6. Ethical Values and Non-Discrimination
Bahçeşehir University is firmly committed to upholding ethical integrity, human dignity, and equality in all lifelong learning environments.
The University ensures that all programs, activities, and educational settings are free from discrimination, exclusion, harassment, or bias of any kind.
This commitment applies to every dimension of the learning process — including admission, participation, teaching, evaluation, and access to facilities. The University strictly prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, color, ethnicity, nationality, religion or belief, language, political opinion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, age, health condition, disability, socioeconomic background, or immigration status.
Created: 2021
Updated: 2024
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