Ashraf AboArafe
TÜRKIYE is strengthening its presence on the world stage not through military might or economic dominance, but through the quiet power of education. The Ministry of National Education (MoNE) now implements 350 educational agreements with 125 countries, weaving a vast network of intellectual and cultural exchange that reinforces Türkiye’s soft power and global influence.
Building Bridges through Knowledge
Guided by MoNE, Türkiye’s education diplomacy serves as a cultural bridge—fostering understanding, trust, and long-term partnerships across continents. To date, 350 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed, stretching from Northern Cyprus to Qatar, from Greece to Libya, and from the Republic of the Congo to Mongolia. Each accord represents a new link in a growing chain of cooperation built upon shared values and mutual learning.
New Horizons and Strategic Alliances
Over the last two years, Türkiye has broadened its educational map, signing 16 new agreements with 14 countries. Among these, a protocol with Syria focuses on teacher training, professional development, and special education. A major milestone has been the establishment of the Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Türkiye–Moldova College, symbolizing friendship and shared educational ambition.
Strategic partnerships with Ukraine, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan have further diversified areas of cooperation—ranging from vocational education to higher studies. Discussions with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Northern Cyprus also aim to establish new Turkish schools, continuing Türkiye’s mission to nurture human potential beyond its borders.
A Growing Network of Turkish Schools
As of June 2025, Türkiye proudly operates 65 schools across 13 countries, educating over 12,000 students under the guidance of 679 teachers. Among upcoming institutions, the Karabakh Turkish School and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Türkiye–Moldova College stand as symbols of Türkiye’s educational vision—spreading both knowledge and cultural harmony.
The “Sister School” Legacy
Since its inception in 1994, the Sister School Program has become a cornerstone of Türkiye’s cultural diplomacy. Today, 1,229 partnerships link Turkish schools with peers in 64 countries, 712 of them abroad. Through shared projects, cultural exchanges, and joint learning experiences, the program continues to sow the seeds of empathy and global citizenship.
Inclusion through Education
MoNE’s commitment extends beyond borders to inclusivity at home and abroad. The PIKTES+ Project and Turkish Language and Culture courses offer pathways for foreign students to integrate and flourish. During the 2024–2025 academic year, 2,174 students across eight countries participated in Turkish language programs, with expansion to 11 countries on the horizon.
Global Partnerships for Lifelong Learning
Through collaborations with EU and UN agencies, Türkiye promotes adult learning, employment readiness, and social integration. Initiatives under Erasmus+, EPALE, UNICEF, UNDP, and UNHCR not only enhance Türkiye’s educational capacity but also elevate its visibility as a partner in global development.
Toward a Global Vision
The Ministry of National Education affirms that Türkiye is no longer merely a regional player—it has become a global actor in education diplomacy. With new agreements and evolving partnerships ahead, Türkiye’s classrooms are transforming into arenas of peace, cooperation, and shared progress—proving that education remains the most enduring bridge between nations.
