Bahçeşehir – Bahcesehir – University (BAU) actively implements comprehensive outreach and educational initiatives that extend its impact beyond the campus, reflecting the institution’s strong and long-standing commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. These initiatives aim to support and empower diverse community groups—including alumni, local residents, and displaced populations—through targeted education, training, and awareness-raising programs.
By organizing public workshops, professional training sessions, and community engagement projects, BAU addresses contemporary environmental, social, and economic challenges while fostering a culture of sustainability and lifelong learning. Each activity is designed with an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all participants—regardless of background—gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to sustainable development within their own communities.
Through these initiatives, BAU continues to strengthen its role as an educational hub for social transformation, aligning all outreach efforts with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Examples of the university’s related initiatives are presented below.
Further information is available through Bahçeşehir University’s official SDG reports link.
Tuition-Free Education Support for Ukrainian and Palestinian Displaced Students Affected by Conflict
The image below shows a screenshot from Bahcesehir University’s official announcement offering tuition-free education opportunities to displaced students impacted by conflict
Bahcesehir University – Bahçeşehir University (BAU) upholds its strong sense of social responsibility by providing tuition-free educational opportunities for students displaced due to war and conflict. Recognizing education as a fundamental human right, BAU launched a dedicated support program for students affected by the war in Ukraine, allowing them to continue their academic journeys as guest students without tuition fees. This initiative ensures displaced students can pursue their studies in a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
In the 2024 academic year, BAU expanded this humanitarian initiative to include Palestinian students displaced by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, offering full scholarships and tuition-free education for those affected. By welcoming displaced students into its academic community, BAU reinforces its commitment to equity, peace, and the transformative power of education, ensuring that no student’s future is defined by crisis or displacement.
Through these initiatives, BAU actively advances SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by safeguarding access to education and promoting compassion, inclusion, and global understanding.
The records regarding scholarships provided to Palestinian students can be shared upon official request.
BAU Sustainability Training Program to the Earthquake Zone in Malatya (13-15.12.2024)
The two images below show the promotional posters of the Bahcesehir University Sustainability Training Program conducted in the earthquake zone in Malatya.
On 13 December, the Bahcesehir – Bahçeşehir - University’s CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR team organized a meaningful educational event in Battalgazi, Malatya titled “Heroes of Nature: Raising Awareness on Sustainability,” , offering support and inspiration to children and their parents affected by the February 6 earthquakes. During the seminar, CIFAL Istanbul personnel introduced participants to the mission and values of the United Nations, explaining how individuals can actively contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The speakers addressed key topics such as clean water conservation, renewable energy, sustainable cities, climate action, and the protection of natural ecosystems. Presentations focused particularly on waste reduction and the long-term benefits of adopting eco-friendly lifestyles within families and communities. At the conclusion of the event, the CIFAL Istanbul team presented books to the participating children and joined them in a tote bag painting workshop, reinforcing messages of creativity, sustainability, and collective responsibility for the environment. The initiative reflected Bahçeşehir University’s dedication to providing quality education beyond its own campus, extending academic expertise to external learning environments. The following day, on 15 December, the BAU CIFAL Istanbul team, held a series of official meetings with local authorities in Malatya, one of the provinces most affected by the earthquakes of February 6. The delegation first met with the Head of the Strategy Development Department at the Malatya Metropolitan Municipality, where discussions focused on possible improvements in the region, including the sustainable reconstruction of schools, educational initiatives, and potential collaborations to enhance the quality of learning in the area. Later, the team visited the Deputy Mayor of Battalgazi Municipality to exchange views on the city’s recovery efforts, social service delivery, and evolving community needs. Both meetings aimed to identify areas for cooperation that align with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, emphasizing transparent governance, institutional resilience, and inclusive local partnerships.
The three images below show highlight pictures of the Bahcesehir University Sustainability Training Program conducted in the earthquake zone in Malatya.
Bahcesehir University Conference on Sustainability Awareness for High School Students by BAU (26.11.2024)
The two images below display highlight pictures of the Bahcesehir University Sustainability Awareness for High School Students.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burçak Vatansever Durmaz, faculty member at Bahçeşehir University’s Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences, participated in a conference organized at Bakırköy Uğur Anatolian High School to promote sustainability awareness among young people. The session engaged around 60 high school students, focusing on environmental responsibility, conscious consumption, and the importance of adopting sustainable habits for the future.
Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, the conference encouraged students to recognize their role in building a more sustainable society. By linking sustainability with everyday choices and collective action, the program contributed to SDG 4 by expanding access to quality sustainability education, SDG 12 by fostering awareness of responsible consumption and production patterns, and SDG 13 by inspiring youth to take action against climate change through informed, responsible behavior.
Kocaeli High School Sustainability Summit’24 (20.11.2024)
The image below displays the opening session picture of the Bahcesehir University Kocaeli High School Sustainability Summit’24.
As part of the Global Schools Program, Bahçeşehir University CIFAL Istanbul team participated in the “Sustainability Summit’24” organized by Kocaeli High School bringing together students, educators, and sustainability experts to discuss innovative approaches to global challenges. Reflecting Bahçeşehir University’s commitment to extending quality education beyond its own campus, the event provided a meaningful platform for high school students to engage with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the summit, Dr. Yasemin Ülker, Deputy Director of BAU CIFAL Istanbul, delivered an insightful presentation on the concept and relevance of sustainability in today’s world, as well as Bahçeşehir University’s initiatives that empower youth to take action toward a more sustainable future. The session highlighted CIFAL Istanbul’s collaborations under the UNITAR network, its youth-focused projects, and the role of the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform in encouraging active student participation in sustainability efforts.
By connecting directly with high school students and educators, Bahçeşehir University, through its CIFAL Istanbul Centre, continues to promote sustainability awareness and foster a culture of learning and responsibility beyond the university environment.
The two images below highlight pictures of the Bahcesehir University Kocaeli High School Sustainability Summit’24.
Bahcesehir University CO-OP Responsibility: High School Students Career Development Program with Darüşşafaka Educational Institutions (2024) (includes sustainability)
The image below shows the promotional poster of the Bahcesehir University CO-OP Responsibility: High School Students Career Development Program.
Originally launched in 2023 and reintroduced in 2024 due to remarkable interest and high demand, the Bahcesehir University – Bahçeşehir University - High School Students Career Development Program has been led by Bahçeşehir University as part of its CO-OP Responsibility initiative. The program embodies Bahcesehir University’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities in education and expanding access to quality learning experiences beyond the university campus.
This program is specifically designed for high school students of Darüşşafaka Educational Institutions, a distinguished school that provides full scholarships and eight years of boarding education to academically talented students who have lost one or both parents and face socio-economic challenges.
In this edition, Bahcesehir University’s distinguished faculty members personally visited Darüşşafaka High School and delivered their lectures on-site, offering university-level learning directly within the high school environment. The 13-week curriculum focused on key themes such as: Sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, Creative Thinking, Digital Communication and much more. Each module is designed to strengthen students’ competencies in future-oriented skills, while fostering social awareness, creativity, and technological literacy. Through these learning experiences, students are encouraged to discover their potential, make informed career choices, and develop the skills needed to manage their professional paths with confidence and purpose.
The program is organized by Bahçeşehir University in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul, a training and research center affiliated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Upon completion, participants receive BAU–UNITAR-approved certificates, formally recognizing their achievements and engagement in a university-level learning experience.
Through this initiative, Bahçeşehir University continues to extend its educational ecosystem beyond its own campus, empowering high school students with the knowledge, vision, and inspiration needed to shape sustainable and inclusive futures.
The five images below show the program structure and course schedule, sample of certificate and highlights pictures of the Bahcesehir University CO-OP Responsibility: High School Students Career Development Program.
Highlights from the Program
BAU Sustainability Certificate Program
The image below shows a screenshot from the official website of the Bahcesehir University Sustainability Certificate Program.
This comprehensive Sustainability Certificate Program, developed by Bahçeşehir University (BAU) academics, offers participants a structured and engaging learning experience that deepens their understanding of sustainable development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The program explores the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications to equip participants with the skills needed to address the complex challenges of the 21st century.
Comprising 12 modules and 99 sections, the training provides an integrated framework for understanding sustainability from multiple perspectives—linking global principles with local practices. By completing the program, participants strengthen their sustainability literacy, gain actionable insights, and build the capacity to contribute effectively to sustainable transformation in their professional and personal spheres.
Bahcesehir University – CIFAL Istanbul, United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Sustainability School
The image below shows the cover page of the promotional brochure for the Bahcesehir University – CIFAL Istanbul, United Nations Institute for Training and Research School.
The Sustainability School, jointly developed by Bahcesehir University (BAU), CIFAL Istanbul, and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), represents one of BAU’s flagship education and research initiatives designed to advance sustainability literacy and leadership. The program aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to integrate sustainability principles into professional, academic, and community contexts.
The comprehensive curriculum, designed and delivered by BAU faculty members, is built on a hybrid and lifelong learning model that combines online flexibility with interactive, experience-based education
Participants engage with a total of 12 modules, 48 hours covering topics such as environmental and social sustainability, circular economy, green innovation, ESG management, sustainable finance, responsible supply chains, and sustainability communication
The program is conducted entirely in partnership with UNITAR and grants a jointly accredited international certificate, signed by Bahçeşehir University, CIFAL Istanbul, and UNITAR, ensuring that learners gain globally recognized credentials in sustainable development education
Through its applied learning approach, the Sustainability School empowers professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, students and broader public to act as sustainability leaders capable of designing innovative and responsible strategies for the future.
Detailed information about the program and its modules can be accessed via the linkl BAUPRO Sustainability School publication.
The images below show the course schedule of the Bahcesehir University – CIFAL Istanbul, United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) School.
Bahcesehir University Students Promote Sustainable Consumption at Primary School During Local Products Week (13.12.2024)
The images below show photos from Bahcesehir University students’ outreach activity at a primary school during Local Products Week
As part of Local Products Week, Bahçeşehir University academics and students, with the support of CIFAL Istanbul and BAU Branding, organized a meaningful social responsibility event at Levent Lütfi Banat Primary School, reflecting the university’s commitment to providing quality education opportunities beyond its own campus.
The activity featured interactive presentations on local products, brand awareness, and responsible consumption, aiming to introduce young students to the concepts of sustainability and conscious consumer behavior. Through shopping simulations and brand design workshops, participants gained hands-on experience and developed practical insights into sustainable food systems and responsible consumption habits.
By engaging directly with primary school students, Bahçeşehir University continues to strengthen its educational mission of linking academic knowledge with social awareness—encouraging younger generations to make informed, ethical, and environmentally responsible choices in their daily lives.
Bahcesehir University Climate Change Summit in BAKU Azerbaijan : The Climate Crisis as a Sustainability Issue
The image below shows the promotional poster of the Bahcesehir University Climate Change Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan.
On 1 November 2024, CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR, and Bahcesehir University (BAU) jointly organized the “Climate Change Summit: The Climate Crisis as a Sustainability Issue” in collaboration with Azerbaijan Technical University (AzTU), the Young Researchers Innovation Club (HİK), and BilimSenOl. The summit, held at Azerbaijan Technical University in Baku, brought together academics, researchers, and students to explore the growing intersection between climate change and sustainability.
The event featured insights from Prof. Dr. Çisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul–UNITAR; Dr. Yasemin Ülker from BAU Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences; and Dr. Nilüfer Geysi from BAU Faculty of Communication. Discussions focused on how the climate crisis has evolved from an environmental challenge into a broader sustainability issue encompassing social responsibility, energy transformation, and communication strategies for public awareness.
Through its multidisciplinary approach, the summit highlighted Bahcesehir University’s ongoing commitment to global climate education and its active engagement in international dialogue addressing the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of climate change. The initiative contributed directly to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by advancing awareness and scientific dialogue on climate resilience, and to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering cross-border cooperation between Türkiye and Azerbaijan on sustainability-oriented education and research.
Bahcesehir University SDGs and Beyond Public Seminar: Women’s Leadership and Sustainable Development (27 March 2024)
The image below shows the promotional poster of the Bahcesehir University SDGs and Beyond Public Seminar titled ‘Women’s Leadership and Sustainable Development”.
Co-organized by Bahcesehir University, TÜLIP Sustainability Center, and TOSAM (Center for Health, Society, Behavior, and Prevention Studies), this event marked the fourth installment of the SDGs and Beyond public lecture series. The hybrid panel explored the role of women’s leadership in advancing sustainable development and equality.
Moderated by Bérénice Kafui Schramm and opened by Prof. Nilüfer Narlı, the session featured inspiring speakers who discussed their experiences in leadership, policy, and advocacy. Conversations centered on women’s empowerment, youth leadership, health equity, and inclusive governance—highlighting how gender equality accelerates progress across all Sustainable Development Goals.
Through its focus on empowering women and addressing systemic inequalities, the event directly contributed to SDG 5 by promoting women’s full participation and leadership in public life, and to SDG 10 by fostering dialogue on reducing structural and social disparities. The panel underscored a shared vision: investing in women is investing in a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Bahcesehir Community Gathering for Displaced Palestinian Students and Their Families
The two images below show the promotional poster and a event photo of the Bahcesehir University Community Gathering for displaced students and their families.
On December 1,,Bahcesehir Universityorganized a community and morale meeting for its displaced Palestinian students and their families, providing emotional support, solidarity, and a sense of belonging during a time of conflict and uncertainty.
The event, hosted by the Student Dean’s Office, created a compassionate and inclusive space where students could connect, share experiences, and find comfort within the university community.
Through this initiative, BAU reaffirmed its dedication to fostering an environment of empathy, resilience, and inclusivity, ensuring that displaced students continue to feel supported both personally and academically.
This gathering contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by supporting access and continuity for all learners, and to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by promoting equal care and opportunity for students affected by crisis and displacement.
Psychological Support and Integration Session for Displaced Palestinian Students at Bahçeşehir University
On December 5,, Bahceshir University organized a support and integration session for Palestinian students displaced due to the ongoing conflict, reaffirming the university’s commitment to inclusion, empathy, and well-being within its academic community.
Held at the BAU South Campus, the session brought together 30 participants, including psychological counselors, postgraduate psychology students, and representatives of the BAU Palestinian Student Community.
Facilitated by Psychologist Soraya Raeispour (Specialist, Psychological Counseling and Research Center – PDRM), Obeidah Abdullah (Graduate Student, Psychology), and Noran Dari (Representative of BAU’s Palestinian Student Community), the program provided a safe and compassionate space for students to share experiences, express emotions, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the university.
The session aimed to help displaced and war-affected students navigate the challenges of adaptation, academic continuity, and emotional recovery through structured dialogue, peer support, and culturally sensitive counseling.
By addressing the psychological and social needs of these students, BAU reinforced its commitment to ensuring that all learners—regardless of nationality or circumstance—can pursue education in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.
This initiative directly contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by ensuring continued access to learning, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) through inclusive student support, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by promoting compassion, dignity, and mutual understanding within the university community.
Alumni Engagement and Lifelong Learning and Sustainability at Bahcesehir – Bahçeşehir - University
Bahcesehir University (BAU) actively supports lifelong learning and community connection through a wide range of educational outreach programs designed for its alumni.
Through the Bahcesehir University Alumni Office, the university organizes seminars, workshops, and creative learning sessions include sustainability that bring together graduates to exchange knowledge, build skills, and strengthen community bonds.
These activities cover both personal and professional development, including seminars on emotional resilience, leadership, sustainability and career growth, as well as creative workshops in culinary arts, communication, and design. The programs are open to alumni; reflecting BAU’s commitment to accessible and inclusive education beyond graduation.
Bau Alumni Fest On Sustainability
The image below shows the promotional poster of Bahcesehir University Alumni Fest On Sustainability.
Bahcesehir University Alumni, in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul and the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform, organized an interactive awareness event to promote understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The event aimed to foster sustainability awareness among BAU graduates by engaging participants through interactive discussions and quiz-based activities on each of the 17 SDGs. Through this participatory format, attendees deepened their knowledge of the global goals, their relevance to daily life, and the role of individuals and institutions in achieving them.
Additionally, the session introduced the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform, highlighting its mission to empower young leaders to contribute to sustainable development through education, advocacy, and community-driven initiatives.
By strengthening alumni engagement and sustainability literacy, the event reflected BAU’s continued commitment to building a community of responsible global citizens and advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through education, awareness, and collaboration.
By maintaining these dynamic outreach initiatives, BAU fosters a culture of lifelong learning, networking, and collaboration, ensuring that education continues as a shared and evolving journey.
Samples of other alumni outreach activities can be reviewed via the provided link.
Bahcesehir University Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program in Partnership with CIFAL Istanbul (UNITAR) and Yapı Kredi Bank
The two images below show the poster and course schedule of Bahcesehir University Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program
Bahçeşehir University (BAU), in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul, affiliated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and in partnership with Yapı Kredi Bank, continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive innovation through the “Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program.” This long-term partnership exemplifies how academia, international organizations, and the private sector can work collectively to advance women’s participation in technology, supporting a more equitable and diverse digital transformation.
The program provides free, high-quality training delivered by Bahçeşehir University’s expert faculty, offering comprehensive modules in Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Technologies, Cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Industry 5.0. By aligning academic excellence with real-world applicability, this collaborative effort promotes capacity building and lifelong learning in line with global standards.
In 2024, the initiative expanded its inclusivity by opening participation to all women aged 15 and above—without an upper age limit—and extending access to individuals of any gender residing in the Hope Cities established by Koç Holding following the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes. Participants who meet the program’s academic requirements receive E-Government approved certificates jointly accredited by UNITAR and Bahçeşehir University, reflecting the strong institutional collaboration at the heart of this initiative.
Since its launch in 2023, the program has empowered 22,450 women by the end of 2024, creating tangible progress toward gender equality and digital inclusion. By uniting the expertise of academia, the outreach of the private sector, and the global vision of the United Nations, this partnership demonstrates how collective action and cross-sector collaboration can accelerate progress toward a sustainable and inclusive future in alignment with the 2030 Agenda.
Bahcesehir University MOVE UP 2024 – Capacity Building and Training Program for High School Students
The images below show event photos from the Bahcesehir University MOVE UP 2024 – Capacity Building and Training Program for High School Students,
The BAU MOVE UP Capacity Building and Training Program, initiated by Bahcesehir University, continues to empower high school students across Türkiye by providing free, high-quality learning opportunities designed to enhance their academic, personal, and professional development. Launched in 2019, the program aims to guide young individuals in shaping their future career paths and academic aspirations. In 2024, MOVE UP was successfully implemented in Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Bursa, bringing together hundreds of high school students from diverse regions and backgrounds.
Throughout the program, participants took part in interactive sessions and workshops delivered by Bahcesehir University’s distinguished academics, who shared their expertise on a wide range of contemporary themes, including sustainability, technology, digital media, innovation, access to information, and fundamental legal rights. These sessions enabled students to strengthen essential competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and leadership.
Reflecting Bahcesehir University’s mission to make quality education accessible to all, the MOVE UP Program remains free of charge and open to high school students throughout Türkiye, ensuring equal access to transformative educational experiences. By fostering youth capacity development and awareness in key 21st-century skill areas, Bahçeşehir University continues to extend its educational impact beyond the university campus—contributing to the formation of an informed, capable, and socially responsible generation ready to shape a sustainable future.
Panel: “War and Women: Examining Human Rights Violations in the Syrian Civil War” (24 December 2024)
Held at Bahceşehir University Faculty of Law and jointly organized by BAU TOSAM (Center for Health, Society, Behavior, and Prevention Studies) and ULMER-HLO (Human Rights and Law Organization),this panel examined the gendered dimensions of human rights violations during the Syrian Civil War. Moderated by Prof. Dr. Esra Albayrakoğlu, the event convened experts, academics, and practitioners to discuss the systemic effects of war on women’s rights and wellbeing.
Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Narlı presented an analysis of human rights violations against women during forced displacement, exploring the physical, psychological, and social impacts of armed conflict. Hayrunnisa Çiçek complemented this perspective with insights drawn from field research, shedding light on issues such as sexual violence, forced migration, and the long-term social marginalization of affected women.
By fostering an evidence-based dialogue on protection, justice, and empowerment, the panel directly contributed to SDG 5 by advocating for women’s rights and equality in conflict settings, SDG 10 by addressing the vulnerabilities and disparities faced by displaced populations, and SDG 16 by promoting human rights, accountability, and peacebuilding efforts through interdisciplinary collaboration and policy engagement.
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