Bahçeşehir University Stakeholder Relations and Engagement Policy
Purpose and Scope:
Bahçeşehir University is committed to building sustainable and strong relationships with its stakeholders. This policy outlines the principles governing the university’s interactions with both internal and external stakeholders and regulates their involvement in decision-making processes. The policy applies to all stakeholders, which include a wide range of individuals and groups that interact with or are affected by the university's activities.
Internal Stakeholders:
Students:
The primary focus of the university, students are central stakeholders whose academic, social, and personal development is a top priority. Their opinions and needs guide much of the university’s policy and development initiatives.
Academic Staff (Faculty Members):
Professors, lecturers, researchers, and all teaching staff are key stakeholders who contribute to the academic mission of the university through teaching, research, and service. They are actively involved in shaping university policy and curriculum design.
Administrative Staff:
The support staff, including administrative professionals, play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the university. Their input is essential in managing day-to-day operations and in the decision-making processes related to administrative matters.
External Stakeholders:
Alumni:
Graduates of Bahçeşehir University remain important stakeholders even after completing their studies. They represent the university in professional fields and contribute through mentorship, career opportunities, and involvement in alumni networks.
Families of Students:
Families play a significant role in the education journey of students and are involved in various aspects of university life. They are often consulted to ensure student well-being and satisfaction, particularly in areas such as accommodation and financial support.
Business and Industry Partners:
Companies, industry representatives, and entrepreneurs collaborate with Bahçeşehir University in research, internships, and job placement opportunities for students. Their input is critical for ensuring that educational programs are aligned with the needs of the marketplace.
Public Institutions and Government Bodies:
Government agencies and public sector organizations partner with the university on various initiatives, including research, funding, and regulatory compliance. These stakeholders are crucial for public funding, policy alignment, and national education standards.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society:
NGOs and civil society organizations contribute to the university’s social responsibility projects and community outreach efforts. Their collaboration helps the university engage in broader societal issues such as sustainability, social justice, and community development.
Local Communities:
The communities surrounding Bahçeşehir University campuses are important stakeholders, as the university’s activities directly impact their socio-economic environment. The university actively involves local residents and community leaders in projects that support regional development.
International Partners:
As a global university, Bahçeşehir works closely with international universities, research institutions, and organizations. These relationships enhance the university’s global outreach, student exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and international collaboration.
Media:
The media plays a crucial role as a stakeholder by influencing public perception and communicating the university’s achievements, challenges, and initiatives. Bahçeşehir University maintains active engagement with the media to ensure transparent and accurate coverage of its activities and to manage its reputation effectively.
Accreditation Bodies and Professional Associations:
Accreditation bodies and professional associations are significant stakeholders in ensuring that Bahçeşehir University meets national and international educational standards. Their input is vital for maintaining academic quality and promoting the university's programs in professional fields.
Suppliers and Contractors:
Suppliers and contractors who provide goods and services to the university are considered important stakeholders. They are essential for the daily operations of the university and collaborate on maintaining ethical, sustainable, and mutually beneficial relationships.
Principles:
Transparent and Open Communication:
Transparency is fundamental in the relationships built with stakeholders. Bahçeşehir University provides clear, concise, and understandable information to its stakeholders and prioritizes honesty in all forms of communication.
Mutual Trust and Respect:
The university bases its relationships with stakeholders on mutual trust and respect. The opinions, values, and expectations of all stakeholders are taken into account, and these views are treated with respect throughout university activities.
Participatory Approach:
Bahçeşehir University encourages the active participation of stakeholders in decision-making processes. This participation is achieved by collecting stakeholder feedback during strategic planning, project development, and implementation stages.
Continuous Improvement:
Relationships with stakeholders are continuously reviewed and improved. Feedback mechanisms ensure that stakeholder satisfaction and needs are regularly assessed and addressed through the university’s planning and improvement processes.
Diversity and Inclusiveness:
The university fosters diversity and inclusiveness in its relations with all stakeholders. Different viewpoints, cultures, and perspectives contribute to the richness of the university community and are actively promoted.
Responsible Stakeholder Management:
Bahçeşehir University operates with a sense of responsibility towards its stakeholders. The rights and interests of stakeholders are protected, and in the event of a conflict of interest, fair and just solutions are sought.
Social Responsibility and Contribution:
Bahçeşehir University considers contributing to society and addressing social issues as a core responsibility. The university collaborates with its stakeholders to develop and implement social responsibility projects, aiming to create a positive impact on the community.
Stakeholder Engagement Processes:
Feedback and Surveys:
Regular feedback and survey studies are conducted to assess stakeholder satisfaction and expectations. The results of these studies are incorporated into the university’s strategic planning and improvement efforts, ensuring continuous enhancement of relationships.
Workshops and Meetings:
To strengthen relationships with stakeholders, the university organizes workshops, meetings, and dialogue platforms. These events enable stakeholders to actively participate in Bahçeşehir University’s activities and contribute to its ongoing development.
Collaborations and Joint Projects:
Strategic collaborations with business partners, non-governmental organizations, government institutions, and other stakeholders are actively pursued. These partnerships facilitate the implementation of joint projects that serve the mutual interests of both the university and its stakeholders.
Stakeholder Representation:
Stakeholders are represented in the university’s decision-making bodies. These representatives bring the opinions and interests of stakeholders to the university administration, ensuring that stakeholder voices are integrated into institutional governance.
Audits and Development:
This policy is regularly reviewed and updated as necessary. Continuous improvement processes are applied to ensure that stakeholder relations and participation are managed effectively and meet the evolving needs of both the university and its stakeholders.
Bahçeşehir University is committed to adhering to these principles in its interactions with stakeholders and considers stakeholder engagement a strategic priority. Through proactive engagement, the university ensures that its stakeholders are empowered and actively involved in shaping the institution’s future.
As part of its policies and procedures, the university has appointed a stakeholder advisory board consisting of industry staff and other local stakeholders for each faculty.
Stakeholder advisory boards of Bahçeşehir University and its faculties can be accessed by clicking on the links below.
https://bau.edu.tr/icerik/17842-danisma-kurulu
EN
