The Evolution of Türkiye-Sudan Relations Through Education
Key Traits of Modern Diplomacy
The science of diplomacy has evolved to be more adaptable to emerging threats and crises, embracing diverse tools such as education. This philosophy is exemplified by Türkiye’s recent educational diplomacy efforts, particularly in war-torn Sudan.
Definition of Education in Diplomacy
Canadian analyst Daryl Copeland defines the science of diplomacy as utilizing scientific cooperation to enhance international relations. This view aligns with Türkiye’s educational diplomacy, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties through science, cooperation, and mutual understanding.
Sudan’s Current Ties with Türkiye
- Historical relations: The two countries’ ties date back to the 16th-century Ottoman Empire.
- Embassy opening: Türkiye opened its embassy in Khartoum in 1957.
- Cultural affinity: The Turkish and Arabic languages share a significant amount of vocabulary, highlighting the cultural affinity between the two nations.
Today, Türkiye and Sudan cooperate in various sectors, including politics, military affairs, economy, health, agriculture, and education. However, Sudan’s ongoing civil war poses a significant challenge to the region, and Türkiye has been actively supporting the country’s efforts to restore stability.
Support from Türkiye
In April 2023, Sudan’s Sovereignty Council President Abdulfettah al-Burhan visited Ankara, followed by a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The two leaders discussed Türkiye’s support for Sudan’s territorial integrity, military aid commitments, and humanitarian assistance.
| April 2023 | April 2025 |
| Sudanese Sovereignty Council President visits Ankara | President Burhan meets with Turkish President Erdoğan at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) |
Education as a Catalyst for Diplomacy
Education has been identified as a crucial dimension of Türkiye-Sudan relations. A significant cooperation agreement was signed in 2018, aiming to establish a Turkish-Sudanese University. Although the initiative faced challenges due to the global pandemic, educational cooperation has continued between the two countries.
Restorative Power of Education
- Maarif Schools initiative: The Ministry of National Education carries out one pillar of Türkiye’s educational diplomacy through its Maarif Schools.
- Higher education cooperation: YÖK continues its active engagement in higher education cooperation with Sudanese institutions.
- Al Neelen University initiative: The initiative enables affected universities to continue their academic activities in Türkiye as “Guest Universities.”
Inönü University has been a key partner in this initiative, hosting the delegation from Al Neelen University and signing a Memorandum of Understanding.
YÖK’s Role in Educational Diplomacy
YÖK President Erol Özvar stated that Türkiye has always welcomed scholars who were unable to pursue their academic work in their home countries. He emphasized that the “Guest University” initiative sets an example for international academic collaboration.
The cooperation between Al Neelen and Inönü Universities constitutes a key pillar of the “Guest University” initiative. The visit of the delegation led by professor Elhadi Adam Mohamed Ibrahim to Inönü University laid the groundwork for significant bilateral cooperation.
Meeting at Inönü University
The Memorandum of Understanding signed between Al Neelen and Inönü Universities highlights the potential for further cooperation between the two institutions.
The delegation from Al Neelen University requested research and analytical support from Inönü University regarding an unusual mass cancer case observed in their country.
Conclusion
The evolution of Türkiye-Sudan relations through education demonstrates the adaptability and resilience of modern diplomacy. Education has emerged as a vital dimension of the two countries’ ties, shaping bilateral relations scientifically and socially. The restorative power of education has been demonstrated through initiatives such as the “Guest University” program, which has the potential to make positive contributions to the future of Türkiye-Sudan relations.
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