AGU Institutional Report
PIONEER OF
NEW GENERATION
UNIVERSITIES
International Higher Education Hub in the H rt of Turkey
1
PIONEER OF NEW GENERATION
UNIVERSITIES
International Higher Education Hub in the H rt of Turkey
AGU Institutional Report
ABDULLAH GÜL UNIVERSITY Abdullah Gül University (AGU), the first Turkish Public University supported by a philanthropic foundation (AGUV), was established on 21 July 2010 and enrolled its first students in the 20132014 academic year. The efforts towards the establishment of a second Public University in Kayseri began in 2007 with an initiative of the city’s various leaders. The university was named after the 11th President of the Republic of Turkey, the Honourable Abdullah Gül, a Kayseri native, highlighting the strengths of the city in the field of education and the nationally accepted merits of its citizens in economic development and entrepreneurship. AGU would be developed to high standards, creating a difference in Turkish Higher Education. The university project transformed one of the earliest and largest industrial complexes of the Republic of Turkey, Kayseri Sümerbank Textile Factory, into a campus of higher education of 280.000 m2. The construction of a second AGU campus (3.600.000 m2) named after Mimar Sinan, the chief architect of the most glorious period of the Ottoman Empire, also born in Kayseri, continues as well.
AGU STUDENT COUNT
(approx. numbers as of 06/2020) · Bachelor students: 1730 · Master students: 105 · Doctorate students: 101
Total: 1936
Including 190 international students coming from 50 different countries (10% of the student body)
3
AGU Institutional Report
AGU PROGRAMMES Faculty of Engineering:
Civil Engineering (BSc) Computer Engineering (BSc) Electrical & Electronics Engineering (BSc) Industrial Engineering (BSc, MSc & PhD) Mechanical Engineering (BSc) Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology (MSc) Materials Science & Mechanical Engineering (PhD) Electrical & Computer Engineering (MSc & PhD) Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Engineering (MSc)
Faculty of Managerial Sciences
Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences:
Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
Faculty of Architecture
Business Administration (BSc) Economics (BSc)
Political Science & International Relations (BSc) Data Science for Business and Economics (MSc)
AGU LABORATORIES
Advanced Cell Analysis Lab. BISA-LAB. (Biomedical Image And Signal Analysis Lab.) Bio, Micro and Nano Systems Lab. Biomedical Lab. Bioinformatics Lab. Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Lab. Biomaterials Synthesis and Development Lab. BIOMINDS (Bio and Micro-/ Nano-Devices and Sensors) Brain-Computer Interface Lab. Cell Biology Laboratory C. Elegans (Human Genetic Diseases) Lab. Cell Culture (Cancer Research) Lab. Central Research Lab. Certification Lab. Chromatographic Analysis Laboratory Confocal Imaging Laboratory Control and Robotics Research Lab. Digital Modelling and Manufacturing Lab. Electrical Machines and Power Electronics Lab. Geotechnical and Soil Mechanics Lab. Glycomix Characterization Lab. Hydraulic and Hydro Energy Lab. Laser Systems Lab. Mass Spectrometry Lab. Materials Lab. Transportation Lab. Micro and Nano-Material Computational Design Lab. Micro- and Nano-Device Fabrication Lab. Microproduction and Lithography Lab.
4
Molecular Biology and Genetics (BSc) Bioengineering (BSc, MSc & PhD) Architecture (BSc, MSc, PhD)
Micro- and Nano-Featured Material Development Lab. Micro- and Nano-Electromechanical Systems Lab. Microwave Lab. Simulation and Optimization Lab. Nano Imaging and Analysis Lab. Optoelectronic Material Development and Characterization Lab. Organic Materials Design and Synthesis Lab. Optoelectronic Device Lab. Spectroscopic Analysis Lab. Structural Mechanics Lab. Tissue Culture (Cancer Signalling) Lab.
AGU RESEARCH CENTRES
Career and Professional Development Application and Research Centre Continuing Education Application and Research Centre Digital Publications Application and Research Centre Gifted Children Education Application and Research Centre Lifelong Learning Centre Middle East leadership and entrepreneurship application and research centre Psychological Counselling and Guidance Application and Research Centre Youth Studies Research Centre
AGU Institutional Report
THE AGU PROJECT… The Abdullah Gül University was created as a Socio-Technical University Model for Higher Education, an on-going initiative supported by the Turkish Ministry of Development. The project was defined with the help of about 20 Search Conferences and 40 Workshops, and has aimed at pioneering the New Generation University model in Turkey, with unique and innovative curricula and educational processes, in the objective of disseminating the project’s findings across all higher education institutions in the country and beyond. This pilot project, started in 2010 by the Turkish State to revolutionize Higher Education, was shaped by +700 contributors from Universities, Corporations, NGOs, etc. and is the 1st cross sectorial initiative for a Hybrid University model.
…IMPLEMENTED IN THE HEART OF TURKEY… The Abdullah Gül University was established in the city of Kayseri (1.5 Mio inhabitants), the birthplace of the architect Mimar Sinan and 11th President of Turkey, and a Historical, Trade, Industrial and Touristic Hub of Turkey. Throughout time, the city became the cradle of many civilizations and an important halt along the Silk Road. It is also one of the “Anatolian Tigers” - these Turkish cities that have enjoyed immense economic growth - and has been an important touristic platform thanks to the continued popularity of both the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cappadocia and Mt Erciyes Ski Centre.
…TO CREATE AN INTERNATIONAL HIGHER EDUCATION HUB As part of its objective to innovate Higher Education and produce Graduates equipped with the best skills for today’s globalized society. All AGU programs are taught 100% in English, which makes AGU one of the very few institutions in Turkey to do so. The University offers programmes with innovative and learner-focused approaches at the Bachelor, Master and PhD levels in its Faculties of Engineering, Life and Natural Sciences, Managerial Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences and Architecture. AGU research programmes emphasize interdisciplinarity and aim to make original contributions to academic literature and to support the economic, technological and social development of society.
5
AGU Institutional Report
A UNIQUE STRUCTURE AND VISION… THE FIRST TURKISH PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SUPPORTED BY A FOUNDATION The Abdullah Gül University Foundation (AGUV), established on 13 July 2011 with the sole purpose of supporting Abdullah Gül University on its path to becoming a world university, brings together the leaders of Turkish industry and business. In addition to providing financial support, AGUV is a model of cooperation, focused on mutual vision and mission statements with the university for the achievement of its goals. The primary support areas of AGUV include: Scholarship support for successful student, Support for the economic, social and cultural expectations of the faculty members and adminis trative staff and Developing the educational and technological capacity of the university and enhancing its research infrastructure. AGU is the first hybrid model between State and private universities in the Turkish higher education system.
A RESEARCH UNIVERSITY WITH A FOCUS ON SOCIETAL IMPACT AGU, as a Research University seeking Solutions to Global Challenges through Partnerships and Learner-Centered Approaches, aims to develop Citizens who can contribute to Societies and Shape the Future by converting Knowledge into Personal and Social Values With its mission focusing on societal impact, AGU targets global challenges, which will also stimulate students’ professional careers and ambitions. AGU aspires to the ways of engagement with UN sustainable development goals (SDGs) through the provision of qualified human resources, development of technology, production of patents, founding of new start-up companies, running of industrial projects, development of economic and social policy, contribution to cultural life, and the dissemination of knowledge to the society. Besides focusing on the production of knowledge to benefit society, AGU addresses real-world issues and problems in education and research. Real world issues do not only feed naturally into trans-disciplinary studies, but also highlight the impact of education. The education and research environments at AGU are designed to converge on real life problems. Thus, students find opportunities within new learning and research experiences to develop their careers. Although giving individual emphasis on Education, Research, and Societal Impact, contemporary universities are significantly lacking in the degree of integrating these three functions into their systems. While these requirements are often considered separately, AGU sets out to design the multiplicative rather than additive effect of these three interactive elements. By breaking down the walls between disciplines, the opportunity arises for real world subjects to become the work in the university’s programmes. With these principles, AGU has adopted an approach of continuous research and development and on training students on 21st Century Skills, including Adaptability, Creative Problem Solving, Communication, Team Work, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Know-How Exploitation.
6
AGU Institutional Report
…LED BY FUNDAMENTAL VALUES... THE AGU VALUES ARE IMPLEMENTED INTO EVERY ASPECT OF UNIVERSITY LIFE
AGU believes that the future belongs to those who trust in the beauty of their dreams, and encourages its members and stakeholders to think unconventionally beyond one’s reality towards a better future, challenge norms and go beyond the expected. AGU strives to adopt diverse, creative, innovative and visionary approaches in order to overcome obstacles or boundaries, and be a pioneer of new models and ideas. AGU emphasizes education, research and societal impact with the determination to put all best efforts into every action. AGU believes that life is a never-ending learning and constant improvement experience, which requires passion to develop strengths and an explorer mindset to compensate weaknesses. AGU develops analytical mindsets and recommends seeking knowledge and understanding in new environments, leaving no stone unturned and nurturing the drive to reach new goals. AGU believes that innovation is a key component of progress and requires an entrepreneurial mindset. Creating and leading the change requires being daring, active, willing to take risks, but also inspiring others. Showcasing true leadership is having a vision and gathering others around it; “igniting a spark”, and rallying people around a common goal. AGU always encourages its members and stakeholders to be ambitious, dream big and aim high. AGU believes that excellence can only be achieved by emphasizing quality over quantity, taking risks, paying attention to details, learning from mistakes, and creating value. AGU recommends to continue developing new knowledge and skills; never stop learning and progressing AGU understands the importance of meeting goals in a reliable and honest way and believes that success is worthless if not achieved ethically and with integrity. All should seek development but at the same time respect others and rules, be fair and just, accountable and honorable. AGU advocates having values and living by them, promoting fundamental rights and freedoms for all, leading by example and progressing sustainably. AGU emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness, being aware of and concerned by global challenges, international mobility and experience, as well as the values and richness of diversity. AGU advocates interculturalism, multilingualism and the development of global visions, networks and intercultural skills. To become global and progress, one must get out of the comfort zone, cross boundaries and discover the world. AGU believes in the old saying that one can go fast by going alone, but can only go far by going together. Current challenges occurring in our globalizing societies can only be tackled using interdisciplinary approaches and multiple expertise sets developed by different individuals that need to collaborate. AGU promotes sharing, solidarity, community development, charity, teamwork, collective growth as well as joint efforts towards common goals. AGU promotes innovation and growth, but also understands the importance of acting on a human scale. AGU encourages members to feel emotions, be kind and helpful, show solidarity and to be mindful and respectful of others. Common objectives cannot be achieved without compassion, understanding and meeting others’ needs. AGU teaches to develop emotional intelligence and know how to take distance and change perspectives in order to create relevant solutions. AGU encourages its community and stakeholders to be active members of society and develop a sense of social responsibility/ citizenship. AGU members are given the inspiration and opportunity to get involved, find solutions to make a difference, be it by volunteering or adopting sustainable habits. In all aspects of university life, AGU highlights the importance of being altruistic and accountable, embracing responsibilities, sharing knowledge and resources with communities, improving oneself to help others and preparing future generations for societal development AGU encourages its members and stakeholders to focus as much on form and delivery as on its content, give attention to detail and express themselves effectively in relevant manners. Accompanying quality content with great design, display or presentation is a sign of respect and courtesy towards others. AGU promotes the arts, culture and esthetics, creative and original initiatives, develops appealing images and concepts, and focuses on contemporary trends and styles.
7
AGU Institutional Report
… SUPPORTED BY INNOVATIVE UNITS AND APPROACHES AGU MULTIPLIER IMPACT PLATFORM The University designed and implemented a unique structure called “Multiplier Impact Platform”, which places Societal Impact in all core institutional operations and enables an interaction, through projects, with the other two University missions: Education and Research. All AGU activities are processed through the platform for a multidimensional approach and multiplied impact.
INNOVATIVE UNITS The implementation of AGU’s vision triggered the creation of numerous unique departments such as: · · · ·
8
The AGU Youth Factory: Non-formal Education Resource Centre for the Social and Personal development of Youth. The AGU Academy: Centre for Continuing Education The AGU Children’s University: Centre for Gifted Children The AGU Centre for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching (CELT)
AGU Institutional Report
The Youth Factory showcases the AGU Brand on the international arena with 12 projects funded by European Union, United Nations and Erasmus grants. Countless students from both AGU and different regions of the country are trained with a focus on global problem areas. Over 300 students were sent abroad thanks to student exchange programmes and gained new experiences. AGU became one of the centers in Turkey for international tests such as TOEFL and SAT. Students aspiring to continue their education abroad now have the opportunity to take international exams in Kayseri rather than having to travel to congested centers in Ankara or Istanbul. The AGU Academy, the University’s Lifelong Learning Center, organizes certified trainingpro grams in Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Brand Management, Cyber Security and English Language Education for engineers, managers and other occupational groups based in Kayseri. AGU’s Children’s University has so far provided trainings to around 1500 families and trainers and organized workshops with 1400 children aged 4-14. This Vision implementation also requires the strengthening of key existing units such as: · The Technology Transfer Office · The Student Dean Office · The International and Exchange Office · The Graduate School
9
AGU Institutional Report
“3dC” CURRICULUM An Innovative Curriculum structure called “3dC” was also created. It includes 3 different paths named “Personal Development”, “Glocal Challenges” and “Professionalization”, as well as Competency-based personalized programmes units called “Capsule”. Innovative courses were created in order to expose early-stage undergraduate students to current global challenges (“GLB: AGU Ways”) or enable international collaborative interaction and work via online courses (i.e. “Molecular engineering and soft Nano-materials” in partnership with the Missouri University of Science and Technology).
GLOBAL COURSES AGU developed an innovative Global Challenge Curriculum (GLB) composed of one mandatory course and several elective courses taught throughout the four Undergraduate academic years. These courses focus on global topics such as the ones tackled by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. AGU Global Courses’ objectives are the following: · To help students comprehend and seek solutions to current and future world challenges in an innovative and stimulating class environment. · To help students develop and improve soft and hard skills that are relevant to today’s job market · To establish a culture of dialogue, debate, “Learning by Doing”, teamwork, empathy and participatory learning · To enable progress through the blending of all 3 Contemporary University Missions: Education, Research and Societal Impact
AGU ePLATFORM A Digital Platform (AGU ePlatform) is being designed to go beyond the simple communication & networking functions used by HEIs and accommodate daily collaborative study routines as demanded by the competency-based projects driven educational model: Social functions and Learning Analytics for continuous formative assessment Partnerships with local, national and international companies were set up in order to provide support for curriculum/course development, meaningful research and placement opportunities. 10
AGU Institutional Report
AGU (INTER)NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS Since the launch of the AGU – New Generation University project in 2010, the Abdullah Gül University has already observed the following positive outcomes:
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Recognition in International Rankings: Times Higher Education Impact Ranking (THE Impact) This world ranking is based on the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which AGU is integrating into every aspect of university life, including in the development of its curricula. AGU was ranked #101-200 in the ranking’s first edition (2019), which evaluated over 500 institutions from 75 countries The University’s notable achievements in this Ranking include: Top 10 in the “Sustainable Cities and Communities”, Top 40 in “Climate Action”, Top 60 in “Reduced Inequalities” and Top 80 in “Responsible Consumption and Production” categories. AGU maintained its #101-200 in the 2020 edition, which evaluated over 850 institutions from 85 countries. AGU is the youngest university in the Top 200 as well as the only Turkish Higher Education Institution to have been ranked in the top 200 and is therefore this year’s top-performing university in Turkey.
World’s Universities with Real Impact (WURI) This world ranking evaluates universities’ real contributions to society. AGU was ranked 41st in the ranking’s first edition (2020), including a 10th position in the “Student Mobility and Openness” category, recognizing the innovative and rich AGU internationalization practices and mobility opportunities
11
AGU Institutional Report
Quacquarelli Symonds Emerging Europe and Central Asia (QS) AGU was ranked 183rd in the 2019 edition of this regional ranking, with notable results, especially in the fields of: • • •
Citations Per Paper: ranked 2nd among 354 institutions (1st in Turkey) International Faculty: ranked 27th among 354 institutions (6th in Turkey) Papers Per Faculty: ranked 72nd among 354 institutions (9th in Turkey)
Attraction of Quality Students: AGU attracts national students ranked in the Top 10% of the yearly National University Entrance Exam. The University is also enrolling international students scoring top-results at world-recognized tests/exams (e.g. SAT, ACT, IB, GCE, etc.). Satisfaction of Students: AGU was ranked 1st among Public universities (5th overall) in the 2019 National Student Satisfaction Survey (TÜMA). AGU Rector Prof. Dr. İhsan Sabuncuoğlu was one of the 3 recipients nationwide of the Gold Award in the “Rector’s Performance” category. AGU ranked 1st among public universities in the national index evaluating the best transition to online education in response to the COVID-19 epidemic (2020). The University Assessments and Research Laboratory (ÜniAR) surveyed around 18.000 students in Turkey to create the ranking. Research Output: the Abdullah Gül University is ranked in the Top 3 among Turkish universities for Research output (indexed publications, citations and impact factor per faculty), AGU counts many nationally and internationally awarded researchers, exploring new and innovative research topics, with a focus on societal impact. AGU members’ research projects have been receiving continuous support from industrial and public institutions (such as TÜBİTAK and the European Union). In the period of 2014-2018, around 40 AGU projects received grants from TÜBİTAK’s Presidency for Research Grant Programs, and particularly in terms of its budget per project, AGU became one of the leading universities in Turkey. In the latest list of the University Rankings by Academic Performance (URAP), known as an international rating agency for higher education, AGU was placed 2nd among the 86 universities established after 2000. 12
AGU Institutional Report
Academic Awards: AGU Faculty members have been recipients of numerous national and international recognitions, including “Outstanding Successful Young Scientists Awards” of the Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA), “Young Scientist Awards” of the Science Heroes Association, TÜBİTAK Awards, World Science Forum “Young Scientist of the Year” and the “Leaders in Innovation Fellowship” of the Royal Academy of Engineering – London. Entrepreneurship and Innovation performance: AGU was ranked 12th in the 2018 Turkish University Entrepreneurship and Innovation Index (out of 190 Universities); and 1st among young universities (younger than 25 years). R&D Projects with the Industry: with the vision in mind to achieve global success with local strength and integration, AGU has carried out research and development projects with many companies including Kayseri Transportation, Orta Anadolu, Güven Makine, Başyazıcıoğlu, Haşçelik, etc. Moreover, within the scope of university-industry collaboration at the national scale, the University has implemented 22 projects with a total budget of approximately 13 Mio TL, with many companies including ASELSAN, Türk Telekom, Türkcell and Arçelik. Ideal Learning Environment: AGU members benefit from a 7:1 Student/Academician ratio, modern facilities (brand new, top quality equipment and connected classrooms) and awardwinning campus.
13
AGU Institutional Report
INTERNATIONALISATION Organisation and Strategy: Clear and ambitious internationalisation structure, strategy (Internationalisation Strategy 2015-2020, recognised at the Times Higher Education Asia Awards 2020) and implementation plan were put in place in order to increase the University’s international profile and impact. An Internationalization Committee and International mobility offices were created in order to increase the number of international students, staff members, activities, connections, mobility opportunities, etc. Creating an International Hub: AGU’s internationalised approach has led the institution to reach a 20% international staff and 10% international student ratio with 50 nationalities on campus. 100% of AGU academicians have international study and/or work experience. The medium of instruction at AGU is 100% English. All AGU policies and regulations are internationally compatible and available in English. Intercultural Trainings: Several intercultural events, such as festivals, series, workshops, etc. have been organised in order to encourage dialogue among cultures, intercultural exchange, cultural enrichment, etc. A Growing Network: The University has signed partnerships with 150 academic institutions from 45 different countries on 5 continents. These include double degree programs developed with US and French Universities. AGU is a key knowledge partner of the Global Solutions Initiative (GSI), a global collaborative enterprise to propose policy responses to major global problems, addressed by the G20, the G7 and other global governance fora. Accreditations and Memberships: AGU is Erasmus+ accredited since 2014 and is also a member of the Mevlana Program, Eurodesk and follows the Bologna process for European credit recognition. The University is European Voluntary Service (EVS) accredited and a member of the SDSN Youth network. AGU is a signatory and member of the Magna Charta Universitatum as well as the Hanseatic League of Universities. Conferences: AGU hosted several international academic symposia, conferences, workshops, trainings, etc., attended by several hundred international guests. AGU designed and launched its International Higher Education Conference (IHEC) via its Centre for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching. AGU has also successfully created and hosted three editions of its unique International Symposium on Youth Employment Challenges (ISYEC) via the AGU Youth Factory. Test Centre: AGU is one of the few certified SAT® and TOEFL® Test Centers in Turkey. Hundreds of test takers from across the nation and abroad come to AGU in order to join AGU’s sessions of these tests. Approach and Methods: AGU has developed innovative curricula and courses with international approach and components: · Learning outcomes complying with the requirements of the European Commission · International concepts, topics, methods, case studies, etc. · Programmes designed to fulfil employers’ expectations and needs worldwide
14
AGU Institutional Report
AGU: PIONEER AND AMBASSADOR OF THE NEW GENERATION UNIVERSITY MODEL The Abdullah Gül University New Generation University project is innovative and the first of its kind, and of this scale, in Turkey. For that reason, the project has been divided into several rollout phases, each phase being the subject of close inspections and evaluations by the involved stakeholders; especially the Turkish Ministry of Development. The fourth and last phase of the project is meant to be the dissemination and sharing of the model’s design, implementation and results with all interested national and international institutions. As the New Generation University project has already brought rapid and significant positive results, AGU initiated the dissemination phase earlier and in parallel with the 2nd and 3rd phases. Many Turkish and foreign institutions, organisations, event holders have invited AGU members to present the model’s objectives and development stage during major events and summits. Since 2015, the Abdullah Gül University New Generation University Model has been presented at over 30 separate study visits, meetings including the following: DATE
CITY / COUNTRY
April 2014
Philadelphia / USA
January 2015
Rotterdam / NETHERLANDS
October 2015
Helsinki / FINLAND
November 2015
Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai / CHINA
December 2015
Tehran/ IRAN
January 2016
Berlin/ GERMANY
February 2016
Maastricht/ NETHERLANDS
March 2016
Singapore/ SINGAPORE
March 2016
Kuala Lumpur/ MALAYSIA
July 2016
Rome/ ITALY
July 2016
Hong Kong/ CHINA
September 2016
Paris/ FRANCE
April 2017
Baku/ AZERBAIJAN
May 2017
Rolla/ USA
January 2018
Berlin/ GERMANY
January 2018
Doha/ QATAR
July 2019
Incheon / SOUTH KOREA
15
AGU Institutional Report
Since 2015, AGU members had the opportunity to speak and present the New Generation University Model at some of the most renowned international summits including the following:
16
DATE
CITY / COUNTRY
EVENT
June 2015
Oxford / UK
Leadership in Higher Education
June 2016
Hong Kong / CHINA
Times Higher Education Asia Universities Summit
September 2016
Berkeley / USA
Times Higher Education World Academic Summit
September 2017
Kayseri / TURKEY
Meeting on the Design of 3rd Generation Universities
September 2017
Singapore / SINGAPORE
EduCon Asia-Higher Education Summit
October 2017
Accra / GHANA
IAU International Conference
October 2017
Antalya / TURKEY
International Higher Education Studies Conference
January 2018
Doha / QATAR
Times Higher Education Data Masterclass
February 2018
Istanbul / TURKEY
EURIE Summit
April 2018
Rabat / MOROCCO
Times Higher Education Emerging Economies Summit
June 2018
Orlando / USA
Times Higher Education Young University Summit
June 2018
London /UK
University-Industry Innovation Network
September 2018
Salamanca / SPAIN
Magna Charta Conference
November 2018
Kayseri / TURKEY
IHEC Conference
February 2019
Istanbul / TURKEY
EURIE Summit
June 2019
Berlin / GERMANY
Freie Universitat Berlin International Week
July 2019
Incheon / SOUTH KOREA Conference of Hanseatic League of Universities
February 2020
Istanbul / TURKEY
EURIE Summit
April 2020
Berlin / GERMANY
GSI Digital Summit
July 2020
Joho / MALAYSIA
ATU-Net Virtual University Presidents Forum
AGU Institutional Report
18
www.agu.edu.tr