In 2024, Near East University continued to strengthen its contribution to SDG-related policy development through structured collaborations with national ministries, regional public authorities, and civil society organizations. By participating in workshops, panels, and action-plan initiatives led by governmental bodies, the University supported the identification of key societal challenges, contributed scientific expertise to policy formulation, and assisted in shaping practical strategies aligned with national and regional SDG priorities. These partnerships reflect NEU’s ongoing role in evidence-based policymaking across areas such as disability rights, municipal sustainability, water management, and child welfare.
National Disability Rights Policy Input Through NEU’s Social Research & Development Center
Near East University played a central role in shaping the National Disability Rights Action Plan, an initiative carried out under the auspices of the Presidency of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and led by First Lady Sibel Tatar. Through its Social Research and Development Center, NEU contributed scientific expertise, policy-oriented analysis, and evidence-based recommendations to the national agenda on disability rights.
At the workshop, Prof. Dr. Zehra Altınay presented the comprehensive National Action Plan Report, positioning Near East University as a key stakeholder in the development of national strategies on accessibility, non-discrimination, inclusive governance, and social participation. The report addressed current structural challenges, outlined priority action areas, and proposed multi-sectoral interventions aligned with SDG 5, SDG 10, and SDG 11.
The workshop brought together ministries, public institutions, NGOs, academics, and advocacy groups, enabling a broad consultation platform for evaluating existing gaps in disability policies. NEU’s contribution helped inform the national framework for improving accessibility, strengthening institutional coordination, and supporting long-term adaptive management practices for disability-inclusive public policy.
By contributing research-based insight and participating in the collective policy design process, Near East University reinforced its commitment to advancing inclusive development in the country and supporting SDG-aligned national strategies aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Regional SDG Policy Dialogue with Municipalities and Civil Society
Near East University actively contributed to regional SDG-oriented policy development through the “Sustainable Development Goals in Municipalities Panel” held on 4 March 2024. Organized jointly by the Cyprus Turkish Orthopedic Disabled Association, the Ministry of Interior Local Governments Directorate, and NEU’s Social Research and Development Center, the event provided a high-level platform for discussing how SDG principles can be integrated into municipal governance structures across the region.
Moderated by Prof. Dr. Zehra Altınay and Prof. Dr. Fahriye Altınay, the panel convened local government directors, municipal representatives, NGOs, and scholars from national and international universities. Key speakers included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gökmen Dağlı (Vice-Rector, University of Kyrenia), Phillip Benanchour (Lancaster University), and Cenk Dökmen (Director of Local Governments, Ministry of Interior).
Participants examined the specific challenges faced by municipalities in promoting gender equality (SDG 5) and social inclusion (SDG 10), with a focus on accessibility, disability rights, inclusive urban planning, and citizen engagement. Discussions centered on how municipalities can adopt SDG-aligned strategies, strengthen inter-institutional collaboration, and develop more effective policy mechanisms to enhance local sustainability performance.
By facilitating this cross-sectoral policy dialogue, Near East University helped bridge academia, public authorities, and civil society, contributing to the development of evidence-based municipal policies and supporting the integration of SDG frameworks into local government decision-making processes.
Policy-Relevant Workshop on Sustainable Water Management for TRNC Agriculture
Near East University contributed directly to the national dialogue on sustainable agricultural policy through the “Effective Use of Water in Agricultural Production” workshop, organized in collaboration with Selçuk University and supported by the Presidency of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources. This high-level event aimed to address pressing water management challenges and strengthen evidence-based policymaking for the agricultural sector.
The workshop convened a broad group of public-sector stakeholders, including experts from the State Hydraulic Works Office, the Water Affairs Department, and agricultural producer organizations, alongside NEU academics specializing in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Participants collectively assessed the current pressures on water resources, discussed the impacts of climate variability on agricultural production, and evaluated the structural challenges facing water governance in the country.
Throughout the sessions, NEU researchers contributed scientific analyses and policy-oriented recommendations aligned with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Emphasis was placed on efficient irrigation systems, water-saving technologies, soil–water interaction, and strategies to enhance resilience against water scarcity.
The outcomes of the workshop are being compiled into an official report to be submitted to relevant public authorities. This report is expected to inform future national water management strategies, guide the development of sustainable agricultural practices, and support adaptive policymaking at the governmental level. Through this collaborative initiative, Near East University strengthened its role as a scientific partner in national SDG-aligned agricultural and environmental policy development.
Regional Government SDG Policy Collaboration
Near East University strengthened regional SDG policy development through a formal cooperation protocol with İskele Municipality, aiming to enhance community well-being under SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. The agreement supports the municipality in shaping local health strategies by improving access to healthcare services and expanding community-based health education initiatives.
Through the protocol, municipal employees, first-degree relatives, individuals with special needs, and local residents are granted discounted access to healthcare services at the Near East University Hospital Yeniboğaziçi. This arrangement contributes to the municipality’s efforts to develop inclusive health-access policies for the region.
The collaboration also includes public health awareness programmes designed to inform local communities about sexual health and healthy living. One such initiative was the “Sexuality and Sexual Health for Everyone” education campaign held on 4 January 2024 in multiple villages of the İskele region, supporting the municipality’s preventive health and social inclusion objectives.Through these coordinated actions, Near East University provided direct input into İskele Municipality’s local SDG 3 policies, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and multi-sectoral cooperation in regional public health planning.