Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) continues to strengthen its commitment to social equity, inclusion, and sustainable development through a wide range of scholarship and research support programs. Scholarships provided through external institutional funds are considered one of the university’s most effective instruments for promoting social justice and academic participation under the framework of SDG 1 – No Poverty.

By facilitating access to research-based learning, KTU enables students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to engage in scientific discovery and innovation. The university provides information, guidance, and application support for national programs administered by Yükseköğretim Kurulu (YÖK), TÜBİTAK, and TÜSEB, ensuring that every eligible student has equitable access to educational opportunities and research funding.

The scholarships and grants offered under these programs not only promote academic excellence but also function as a vital social mechanism for reducing inequality and preventing student dropout caused by financial hardship. By integrating these support systems into the university’s academic ecosystem, KTU builds a sustainable environment where education and research are accessible to all.

For example, TÜBİTAK 2209-A and 2209-B Undergraduate Research Project Programs empower students to take an active role in scientific projects led by KTU academics. Likewise, the YÖK 100/2000 Doctoral Scholarship and TÜBİTAK 2210/2211 Graduate and Doctoral Programs enable talented but economically disadvantaged students to continue their postgraduate studies and contribute to the national research capacity.

Beyond individual support, these programs have a broad institutional impact. They enhance the university’s research performance, encourage student–faculty collaboration, and cultivate a new generation of researchers committed to addressing societal challenges through science and innovation. In this context, KTU integrates social responsibility with academic advancement, ensuring that its development model is both inclusive and sustainable.

• Financially disadvantaged students are empowered to participate in qualified research and sustain academic growth.
• Students contribute to socially relevant projects that generate real-world value and strengthen community engagement.
• Retention of low-income students in higher education is increased, promoting upward social mobility and equality of opportunity.
• The university’s research ecosystem becomes more inclusive, innovative, and resilient against socioeconomic disparities.

The remarkable success of KTU students in the 2024 TÜBİTAK 2209-A/B Programs demonstrates the effectiveness of the university’s commitment to equal opportunity, research capacity development, and social sustainability. Such initiatives not only enhance students’ academic experience but also contribute to the broader mission of achieving inclusive and equitable quality education as outlined in SDG 4.

Source: KTU TTO – TÜBİTAK 2209 Programs 2024/1 Term Results