BTHK and Near East University Sign Cooperation Protocol Focused on Digital Transformation
The Information Technologies and Communications Authority (BTHK) has added another partnership to the strategic collaborations it maintains with universities. Within this framework, a comprehensive cooperation protocol covering education, research, certification, events and sectoral partnerships was signed with Near East University.
The protocol was signed at a ceremony held at Near East University by BTHK Chairman Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kadri Bürüncük and Near East University Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kurt.
Under the protocol, the parties aim to carry out joint work in numerous areas including education in digital technologies, cyber security, artificial intelligence, digital certification, entrepreneurship and digital transformation policies. Activities to be undertaken within the scope of the protocol will be coordinated by the Digital Education and Informatics Unit (DEBİM) and the Social Research and Development Centre (TAGEM), both operating within Near East University.
Under the protocol signed between the Information Technologies and Communications Authority (BTHK) and Near East University, joint training programmes in the field of digital technologies will be developed alongside micro-credential programmes recognised at national level. At the same time, a blockchain-based, secure and verifiable digital certification system will be established, strengthening the digital infrastructure of education and accreditation processes.
Within the framework of the cooperation, research contributing to digital transformation policies will be conducted, projects supporting digital entrepreneurship will be implemented, and new models linking education, internship and employment processes will be developed. Under BTHK Akademi, one of the protocol's priority objectives, a hybrid digital education model specific to the TRNC will be applied; sector-oriented, practice-based and certified programmes combining online and face-to-face instruction will be organised.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, BTHK Chairman Kadri Bürüncük said: "While data analytics forms the foundation of sound decision-making, artificial intelligence and cyber security have become indispensable fields of work today. For this reason, it is of great importance not only to use technology consciously but also to build strong and sustainable digital structures." Bürüncük emphasised that university–public sector–industry partnerships hold great value in turning knowledge and experience into joint projects.
Stating that the protocol signed with Near East University further strengthens a partnership they have long valued, Bürüncük said: "Our institution has to date carried out joint projects with many universities and has gained significant benefits from these collaborations. I believe that the partnerships established with universities will make important contributions to our country's digital transformation process."
