Near East University Gender Research and Application Center periodically organizes informative STEM education sessions for female students in both Near East Enterprises schools and public schools. These sessions are conducted free of charge by experienced female academics specialized in STEM fields.
Additionally, at Near East University, mentors provide women candidates who are in the university selection phase with comprehensive information about departments, especially in STEM subjects, and explain the benefits that graduates in these fields can achieve. This aims to help women students make educated decisions during this important selection period and start a successful academic career in STEM fields.
Mentors; responsibilities extend beyond the preference phase and continue throughout the student experience. Mentors provide academic guidance and help students overcome hurdles in STEM, form networks, and develop professions, all to increase the success of female STEM students. In collaboration with Near East College, the secondary education institution of Near East Enterprises, Near East University is furthering its commitment to gender equality by actively addressing the underrepresentation of female students in STEM fields. Aligned with this vision, we offer specialized counseling services tailored to women who may not traditionally consider STEM disciplines for their academic pursuits. Through these guidance initiatives, our goal is to empower and support female students in making informed choices about pursuing careers in STEM, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers that may exist in these fields. Our dedicated counseling services in STEM areas are in line with our overarching mission to ensure that all students, irrespective of gender, have equal opportunities and support to explore and excel in fields that align with their aspirations. This collaborative effort with Near East College reflects our commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse educational environment, where everyone has the resources and encouragement to thrive in their chosen academic and professional paths.
https://lefkosa.nec.k12.tr/university-counseling/?lang=en
"Girls in STEM: Pioneering Science for a Sustainable Tomorrow!"
Turkish Cypriot Gender Equality and Empowerment Center (TOCAM)
Near East University has established the Turkish Cypriot Gender Equality and Empowerment Center (TOCAM) as a research hub for gender studies. TOCAM actively supports gender equality initiatives, including mentorship training programs to empower female students. The centre enhances academic and professional development through these mentorship activities, providing a supportive environment where female students benefit from mentorship opportunities.
Inspiring STEM Careers for Future Generations
Near East University academicians conducted a mentorship session at Bülent Ecevit Anatolian High School on December 27, 2023, titled “STEM Careers Shaping the Future and Your Role.” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Arıkan Sarıoğlu, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Beyza Hatice Ulusoy, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Gonca İnanç shared their expertise with female students, aiming to inspire interest in STEM fields by highlighting the importance of STEM careers in solving global challenges and contributing to sustainable development. Through this mentorship initiative, they encouraged young women to pursue careers in STEM, emphasizing that such paths offer opportunities for impactful, positive change.
Empowering Women Through Mentorship and Collaboration for Sustainable Development
The “International Social Research and Development Symposium” by the Near East University Social Research and Development Center highlighted women’s empowerment and mentorship, fostering a collaborative environment between academics and NGOs. Key themes included "Women’s Entrepreneurship and Social Life" and "Women, Children, and Disability," where leaders like Businesswomen’s Association President Fatma Özok and Turkish Cypriot Women’s Council President Remziye Taneri shared insights on women's roles in sustainable development. The event underscored mentorship as essential for empowering women in entrepreneurship and leadership. A cooperation protocol with the Sakarya Entrepreneurial Women Association further strengthened mentorship opportunities to support women's growth across generations.
Women and Law Symposium: A Sustainability-Focused Exploration of Women's Rights
On March 8, 2023, the Faculty of Law at Near East University hosted the "Women and Law Symposium," emphasizing the intersection of women's rights and sustainability. The first session explored the historical and social roles of women, where speakers such as Dr. Erkut Sivrikaya and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Erçakıca discussed how women’s societal contributions align with sustainable development goals. Legal perspectives on combating violence and protecting abortion rights were also examined. The second session addressed workplace rights, with insights on sustainable employment policies and gender equality. Topics included gender discrimination, the rights of disabled women, and sustainable legal frameworks based on ECHR decisions. The symposium highlighted the essential role of women's rights in fostering a sustainable society, encouraging ongoing dialogue and action toward these goals.
