Mert KAYA

Dynamism in the steppes: Konya Selçuk University

Although its foundation goes back to 1962, it is possible to say that Selçuk University was established in 1975. Selçuk University’s biggest breakthrough was in 1982. With the legal arrangements realized that year, the university reached the level of 8 faculties, 4 vocational schools and 3 institutes.

Selçuk University, which is one of the most important educational institutes in Central Anatolia, has never stopped developing and growing since the day it was established. With continuous advancements, it took its well deserved place among significant educational institutions in Europe and the Near East in a very short time.  

Today, Selçuk University is one of the largest universities in Turkey, with 16 faculties, 22 vocational schools, 19 research and application centers, 2 medical faculty hospitals and 1 state conservatory, as well as almost 85 thousand students.  President of Selçuk University, Prof. Süleyman Okudan, whom we met, described Selçuk University as follows: “A university that raises students with a universal mindset, who will produce, share and apply scientific knowledge at local, national and international levels, primarily in the fields of agriculture, industry and health.”

Well Equipped Graduates
President Okudan particularly stresses that ‘the aim of the university is to maintain an active participant status and versatility, while bringing up self-confident, young professionals of the future. In fact, the employment status of new graduates is rather high, and all the students avail to having a diploma from Selçuk University.      

Konya, Center Of Attraction
The growth witnessed at Selçuk University, both in terms of physical structure and scientific infrastructure, has also caused considerable acceleration in the industry. The fast development of the city, thanks to its population and industry, has made Konya an attractive city for university students.

The problems experienced in many big cities, such as transportation, food and accommodation, are not encountered among students in Konya. The support given from Selçuk University to maintain a good infrastructure, and the Municipality of Konya’s tracked transportation system and major investments have done a world of wonders.

The extension of the tramway lines to the university campus has facilitated smoother student commutes, in particular.

3S = 1S
Although it looks like a mathematical formula, it in fact is a micro description of Selçuk University!   Because, in this dynamic university that cannot fit in its shell, despite the size, all literature, science and social science faculties are present.   Combination of these three basic disciplines forms a popular education institute, such as Selçuk University.

Affluent Social Activities
Selçuk University has 80 student clubs in the areas of science, arts & culture, sports and ideology. In order to maintain the clubs dynamism and social activities, they must organize at least four events per year. The Social Activities’ Advisory Board works closely with the student clubs, by supporting and helping organize these various social, cultural and scientific events. Such major events include: Welcome Festival, New Year Concert, Nevruz Festival, International Theatre Festival, Music Days, Turkish Music Events, Spring Festival, Pool Festival, Tuesday Turkish Folk Music Events, Wednesday Cinema Days, Friday Concerts every five weeks, exhibitions and photography days. Also, Selçuk Chamber Orchestra, Children’s Choir, Folklore Dancing Group, Classic Turkish Music Group and Art Exhibition Group continue their activities throughout the year.

The most popular ones are Aikido, European Union and Erasmus, Science and Civilization, Informatics, Contemporary Dancing, Jazz, Young Lines in Fashion, Automobile and Motor Sports, Aeronautics and Mathematical Thinking Groups.