Strategic Collaboration in Gastronomy Education Between Bahçeşehir University and SushiCo

Bahçeşehir University (BAU) and SushiCO, a Far Eastern restaurant chain operating in Türkiye, have signed a collaboration in gastronomy education. The BAU-SushiCO Edition - Far Eastern Cuisine Certificate Program, which will offer extensive theoretical and practical training ranging from the distinctive flavors of Far Eastern cuisine to its original cooking techniques, will begin on 20 November.

Bahçeşehir University has launched an important collaboration with the Far Eastern restaurant chain SushiCo. The signing ceremony, held at Bahçeşehir University's South Campus in Beşiktaş, was attended by BAU President Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, SushiCo Co-Founder Baran Dumanoğlu and senior officials from both parties. Speaking about the agreement, BAU President Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu said: “As Bahçeşehir University, we believe that our educational programs become even richer through direct contact with the pioneers of the sector. Under the BAU Professional (BAU PRO) umbrella, which we established with this perspective, we attach great importance to sectoral collaborations and take care to develop programs that prepare participants for the dynamics of professional life in different fields. This strategic collaboration with SushiCo brings our academic expertise in gastronomy together with the experience of the sector's strong representatives. Covering the depth and cultural richness of Far Eastern cuisine, this training program opens the door for participants not only to culinary experience but also to vision, discipline and a career journey at international standards. Through this collaboration, with which we will continue to train innovative, well-equipped and visionary chefs who will bring lasting value to the sector, we aim to combine theoretical knowledge with contemporary practice and equip our new generation of aspiring chefs with pioneering skills in the international arena. I thank all my colleagues who contributed to the process and hope to meet in many more great projects.”

Dumanoğlu: “We Are Creating Lasting Value for the Gastronomy Sector”

SushiCo Co-Founder Baran Dumanoğlu said: “For 28 years, we have proudly represented Far Eastern cuisine. This collaboration with BAU marks the beginning of a strong partnership for the chefs of the future. We are bringing together academic expertise and sectoral experience to create lasting value in the world of gastronomy. As SushiCo, with our experience, we aim to give young people not only culinary techniques but also a global vision and professional discipline. Our collaboration is an important investment in the future of our country's gastronomy.”

A 47-Hour Applied Gastronomy Program

The comprehensive 47-hour gastronomy training program, to be implemented as part of the BAU - SushiCo Edition - Far Eastern Cuisine Certificate Program starting on 20 November 2025, will offer participants the opportunity to experience the rich diversity of Far Eastern cuisine hands-on. The program covers a wide range of content, from sushi preparation techniques to noodle and rice varieties, and from wok cooking to Asian soups. The training will be delivered by

an expert team consisting of SushiCo's experienced chefs and academics from the Department of Gastronomy and Culinary Arts at the BAU School of Applied Sciences. In addition to learning professional cooking techniques, participants will go through a productive training process on professional kitchen discipline, international culinary vision and the dynamics of the gastronomy sector.

It Will Inspire the Chefs of the Future

The program also offers an important career opportunity for gastronomy students and aspiring professionals. Following an interview and mutual evaluation, participants who successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to intern at SushiCo, Türkiye's most prestigious Far Eastern restaurant chain. Students will gain sectoral experience and take a step toward a career journey at international standards.

Combining the strengths of BAU and SushiCo, this special training program aims to raise the bar for gastronomy education in Türkiye while inspiring a new generation of aspiring chefs internationally. Detailed information about the program is available at https://bausem.bau.edu.tr/ .