NEWS

Prof. Dr. Ayşegül Komsuoğlu, Rector of Istanbul Nişantaşı University, and Prof. Dr. Ece Salihoğlu, Vice Rector responsible for COP31 coordination, participated in the "Science Diplomacy on the Road to COP31: Academy Launch" programme hosted by Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK). The event, attended by Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, focused on the scientific contributions of universities, international collaborations, and the academic preparation process for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), which Türkiye will host in Antalya from 9 to 20 November 2026.

The programme brought together rectors and vice rectors responsible for COP31 coordination from 208 universities across Türkiye, along with representatives of institutions operating in the fields of research, science, technology, and innovation. During the launch, a national academic participation model was introduced to coordinate the scientific, technological, and societal contributions of universities to the COP31 process. The roadmap for research projects, technological solutions, international academic collaborations, and scientific activities to be carried out prior to the conference was also presented.

In his opening address, Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education, emphasized that science is the strongest foundation in the fight against climate change, while collaboration is the most effective approach. He stated that the goal is to bring together the knowledge and research capacity of Turkish universities under a shared vision throughout the COP31 process.

Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, noted that the COP31 process would be carried out through dialogue, consensus, and collective action, highlighting students and young researchers as key stakeholders. He stated that expanding sustainability practices across university campuses, strengthening international scientific networks, encouraging the active participation of young people in climate diplomacy, and enhancing the joint research capacity of universities are among the priority areas of work.

As part of its preparations for COP31, Istanbul Nişantaşı University continues to advance its scientific output, interdisciplinary research, and climate-focused projects in line with the academic framework developed by Dr. Nazlı Kazanoğlu, Sustainability Coordinator.