Success of Higher Education in Northern Cyprus
Over the past forty years, one of the most significant achievements in Northern Cyprus has been in the field of higher education. As universities in the region have increased, campus areas have expanded and filled with international students. This has created a new dynamic that contributes to every sector of the local economy, presenting important opportunities for local tradespeople and the workforce.
According to data released by the Higher Education Planning, Supervision, Accreditation and Coordination Board (YÖDAK), as of 2025, there are 23 universities participating in the Inter-University Academic Coordination Board. However, this number alone does not indicate success or problems.
Relationship Between Growth and Quality
The size of a university does not always equate to strength and prestige. Simply increasing student numbers, constructing new buildings, or opening new departments is not enough. Establishing a university’s reputation can take years, and a few negative examples can damage that reputation. YÖDAK’s audit report published in 2025 highlighted significant issues such as allowing student admissions to programs without YÖK approval, registrations contrary to regulations, and deficient academic processes.
While such problems do exist, attributing them to all universities is an incorrect approach. What matters is how quickly the growing higher education system can identify and resolve its internal issues.
According to international ranking results, some universities in the TRNC are gaining visibility on platforms like THE 2026 and QS University Sustainability 2026. This indicates that advancements in higher education relate not only to quantity but also to quality.
Reliability of Diplomas and the Quest for Transparency
A diploma represents the promise made to a graduate by an educational institution, and once the value of that promise is called into question, even the institution that issued the diploma cannot compensate for that loss. Therefore, improving the quality of education is far more important than ignoring problems. Establishing a transparent system is essential to gain trust.
Preserving the effects of growth is possible not only by reducing existing problems but also by developing mechanisms that can identify and rectify these issues. In this process, YÖDAK’s role and methodology should be addressed. The institution carries out both planning and evaluation functions. However, it may be time to transition to an independent quality assurance structure.
At this point, it is believed that YÖDAK needs to transform into a more independent, professional, and transparent structure. Quality assurance and accreditation responsibilities can be consolidated under another entity. On the other hand, local inspections should be supported by evaluations conducted by international quality organizations.
Student Status and Allegations of Human Trafficking
The potential abuse of student status has also drawn attention. The U.S. Department of State’s 2025 Human Trafficking Report indicates that some female students in Northern Cyprus have been subjected to forced sexual exploitation. However, such a serious allegation must be investigated independently and comprehensively.
Some other reports from previous years have also contained similar findings. However, there is insufficient data to ascertain whether allegations of abuse are systematic and widespread. At this point, it is essential to ask whether the necessary mechanisms are functioning effectively. In March 2025, a member of parliament claimed that some women were brought in under the pretense of being students and forced to work. A detailed investigation is necessary to emphasize the seriousness of such claims.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
