SDG 11.2 Support of Arts and Heritage
SDG 11.2.1 Public Access to Buildings
The university’s campus features buildings, open spaces, and green areas that reflect its commitment to creating a culturally rich and inclusive environment. These areas are designed to support community engagement and enhance the cultural experience for both students and visitors. The university frequently organizes events, exhibitions, and school tours to ensure access to these facilities and to promote cultural and educational activities.
| İnsan ve Toplum Bilimleri + Yabancı Diller + Eğitim Fakültesi + Türk Dili | İşletme ve Yönetim Bilimleri Fakültesi - Hukuk Fakültesi |
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| Mühendislik ve Doğa Bilimleri Fakültesi | Sanat Tasarımı ve Mimarlık Fakültesi + Uygulamalı Bilimler Fakültesi |
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| Tıp Fakültesi + Diş Hekimliği Fakültesi + Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesi +Eczacılık Fakültesi+ Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulu | Yaşam Merkezi |
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| Rektörlük | Mehmet Okan Öğrenci Yurdu |
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| Prof. Dr. Sadık Kırbaş Yurdu | Türkan Ömer Okan Yurdu |
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| Filiz Ömer Fesli Yurdu | Meral Okan Yurdu |
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| Bekir Okan Sanat,Kültür ve Kongre Merkezi+Konservatuvar | İnşaat Mühendisliği Laboratuvarı |
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| Teknik Mekanlar | |
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| İstanbul Okan Üniversitesi Tuzla Kampüsü Binaları | |
SDG 11.2.1 Public Access to Buildings
The university’s campus features buildings, open spaces, and green areas that reflect its commitment to creating a culturally rich and inclusive environment. These areas are designed to support community engagement and enhance the cultural experience for both students and visitors. The university frequently organizes events, exhibitions, and school tours to ensure access to these facilities and to promote cultural and educational activities.
INTERNET SERVICES
In all three libraries located on our Tuzla Campus, there are 50 computers available for users to access the information they need via the Internet. In addition, wireless access is provided throughout every area of the library, allowing users to connect to the Internet from any point within the facility.
Our computers can be used comfortably by both faculty members and students. Internet access is entirely free of charge. The computers are provided exclusively for educational and academic research purposes.
CIRCULATION (LOAN) SERVICES
Istanbul Okan University students, academic staff, and administrative personnel may borrow books from the library. Users who do not hold a university ID are not eligible to use the borrowing service. Reference sources, periodicals, non-printed theses, rare manuscripts and printed works, items in the reserve and course materials section, and standards cannot be borrowed.
Members who have overdue books or outstanding fines are not allowed to borrow additional materials. All users, without exception, may borrow 2 books for a period of 15 days.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Service
Books that are not available in our library collection can be obtained from other university libraries within the framework of Interlibrary Loan (ILL) cooperation rules and made available to the academic staff.
SDG 11.2.3 Public access to museums
Yönetim tarafından değerlendirilmiş tüm başvuru sahipleri, sergi alanlarına, galerilere ve/veya sanat eserlerine erişim hakkına sahiptir.
SDG 11.2.4 Public access to green spaces
Istanbul Okan University provides unlimited public access to its green and open spaces. The campus is designed to offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, including various public relaxation areas, gardens, and parks. The purpose of these spaces is to support community interaction, relaxation, and well-being, and they are offered free of charge to students and visitors. The university’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement is clearly reflected in its efforts to preserve these green areas and share them with the general public.
SDG 11.2.5 Arts and heritage contribution
Istanbul Okan University actively supports the local arts scene through a variety of cultural events and public performances. Each year, the university hosts performances by choirs, theater groups, orchestras, and dance ensembles, encouraging cultural interaction within the community and showcasing the talents of its students. These events are open to the public and enrich the cultural life of the local area by providing a platform for artistic expression. Through these initiatives, Istanbul Okan University makes a significant contribution to the support and development of local art and culture.
Award for our Visual Communication Design students
Students from our Visual Communication Design Department returned with awards from the Hackathon event organized by UN Women and the Association for Monitoring Equal Rights (CEID).
Our 3rd-year student Arzu Toprak and her team won first prize. Another 3rd-year student, Berfin Ergin, and her team were also awarded the First Honorable Mention (fourth place) in the competition.
The event, attended by around 300 students from different universities across Türkiye, was part of the project “A Strong Civic Space for Gender Equality.” Teams competed to create an effective social media campaign by analyzing data and statistics related to gender equality.
We congratulate our students on their achievements.
The second meeting of GORIL, the event series launched last year by our Visual Communication Design Department, will be held with HAVAS Creative Group Head Cihan Önder and HAVAS Executive Creative Director Mustafa Gülsen under the title “Graphic Design, Art Direction, and Advertising.” The event is open to everyone and will take place on Wednesday, December 11 at 10:30 a.m. in the STMF Osman Hamdi Bey Conference Hall.
Our student exhibition for the course “Food Styling and Photography with Jumbo” opened
At the “Food Styling and Photography with Jumbo” course exhibition organized by our Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Department, 24 creative photographs prepared by 15 students were displayed.
The opening of the exhibition took place with speeches by our Department Chair, Assoc. Prof. Dr. İlkay Gök, and Jumbo General Manager Hakan Zihnioğlu.
Our exhibition “Republic 24 – Domestic Trips and Monuments” opened
Our Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture continues to hold the Republic exhibitions that it organizes annually. This year’s theme is “Republic 24 – Domestic Trips and Monuments.” The exhibition consists of works focusing on the homeland and Republic monuments, created by a group of artists who traveled to different cities between 1938 and 1943.
The exhibition opening was delivered with a speech by our Faculty Dean Advisor, Prof. Dr. Reşat Başar. The works can be visited at the Bekir Okan Culture, Arts and Congress Center until November 25, 2024.
We celebrated the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival
The Chinese New Year and Spring Festival were celebrated with a colorful program organized by our Confucius Institute. The event, held in the Bekir Okan Conference Hall, was also attended by Wei Xiaodong, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Istanbul.
During the celebration, our Chinese Translation and Interpreting students presented dance performances, poetry recitations, and choir performances.
In his opening speech, our Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Bekir Okan, noted that the Chinese Translation and Interpreting Program was opened for the first time in Türkiye at Istanbul Okan University, and that the Istanbul Okan University Confucius Institute is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. He concluded by saying: “Our efforts to strengthen not only our linguistic and cultural relations with China but also our economic relations continue without slowdown. In this context, we will organize the Türkiye–China Economic Forum in April as an important step. Deputy President Cevdet Yılmaz has stated his support and said he will attend the event. I celebrate the Chinese New Year and wish you health and happiness.”
Consul General Wei Xiaodong stated in his speech: “Thanks to the contributions of Istanbul Okan University, one of Türkiye’s leading educational institutions, the Confucius Institute has achieved great success. Thank you for your efforts in the students’ achievements. Last year, as the Consulate General, we provided consular scholarships to 22 students—the highest scholarship number in this consular region. We will continue contributing to educational cooperation between China and Türkiye. We will also work to strengthen bridges of friendship and increase strategic communication. We have no doubt that Istanbul Okan University will continue to expand its support for intercultural communication in the new year. In this scope, in cooperation with our Consulate, we will hold the Türkiye–China Economic Forum at the University’s Tuzla Campus in April. I wish that the Year of the Dragon, which we will enter on February 10, brings good fortune to all of us.”
SDG 11.2.6 Record and preserve cultural heritage
Istanbul Okan University places great importance on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage by carrying out various projects aimed at documenting and preserving local folk literature, traditions, language, and cultural knowledge. The university actively participates in community-based initiatives and research that explore and record the rich cultural heritage of local communities, as well as the traditions and narratives of displaced groups. These efforts aim to prevent the loss of valuable cultural heritage and ensure its transmission to future generations, thereby contributing to the cultural sustainability and diversity of local and regional communities.
SDG 11.3 Expenditure on arts and heritage
SDG 11.3.1 Arts and heritage expenditure
SDG 11.4 Sustainable practices
SDG 11.4.1 Sustainable practices targets
Istanbul Okan University aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by establishing a comprehensive carbon management process. The university actively monitors and assesses its carbon footprint through regular audits and reporting mechanisms. It implements various strategies such as the use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable transportation options. In addition, awareness and participation in carbon-reduction initiatives are encouraged among students and staff.
This process aims to define the methods for monitoring and reporting the energy produced and consumed within the framework of the university’s Energy Management System, as well as for creating energy performance indicators. The process covers the monitoring and reporting of energy sources that affect the energy management system in all buildings and facilities across Istanbul Okan University campuses.
Istanbul Okan University encourages students and employees to choose lower-carbon, accessible, and sustainable transportation methods by:
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Istanbul Okan University offers various shuttle services to increase accessibility for students and staff:
External Shuttle Services: Regular shuttle buses operate between the Tuzla/Tepeören Main Campus and the Mecidiyeköy Campus; they also provide transportation to key metro stations and designated points across the city.
Staff Shuttle Services: Free shuttle services are provided exclusively for university personnel, enabling employees to reach the campus comfortably and at no cost.
On-Campus Transportation: Eco-friendly electric vehicles operate within the campus, making it easier to travel between buildings, green areas, and various facilities, and supporting sustainable internal mobility.
These are among our examples of carbon reduction and emissions reduction efforts.
SDG 11.4.2 Promote sustainable commuting
Istanbul Okan University is taking various steps to promote sustainable transportation. The university provides shuttle buses for students and staff, offering an affordable and environmentally friendly commuting option. It also offers designated bicycle parking and storage areas on campus to encourage cycling. The university has implemented a pedestrian-friendly campus layout and supports car-sharing programs to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use. In addition, Istanbul Okan University has installed charging stations to encourage the use of electric vehicles and provides preferential parking spaces for fuel-efficient cars.
Istanbul Okan University Transportation Options
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| 1. Charging Stations (Istanbul Okan University) | 2. On-Campus Electric Vehicles (Istanbul Okan University) |
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| Example Charging Points for Electric Vehicles (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye) | |
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| Example of a Zero-Emission Electric Moped (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye) | Example of a Zero-Emission Electric Scooter (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye) |
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| Examples of Zero-Emission Electric Golf Carts (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye) | |
SDG 11.4.3 Allow remote working
Provided that it does not hinder the university’s overall workflow, remote working permission may be granted—based on acceptable reasons and upon the staff member’s request—following the approval of the Unit Manager and the evaluation of the Secretary General and the Rector. This initiative aims to improve employee well-being, reduce transportation-related carbon emissions, and contribute to the university’s sustainability goals.
Please review Article 27 of the Administrative Staff Directive.
SDG 11.4.4 Affordable housing for employees
In the Staff Dormitory, short- or long-term accommodation is provided to all applicants for a small fee, subject to availability.
SDG 11.4.5 Affordable housing for students
Our dormitories are located within Istanbul Okan University’s Tuzla Campus and have a total capacity of 1,334 beds. They consist of five separate buildings: three female dormitories and two male dormitories. All faculty buildings are within a 5-minute walking distance. Dinner is provided five weekdays (excluding public holidays) and is included in the dormitory fee.
The dormitory buildings include study rooms that students can use free of charge, a laundry room, ironing room, prayer room, wired and wireless internet access, and 24-hour hot water service.
Across all dormitories, there are guidance and administrative staff on duty 24/7 who take student concerns and suggestions into account and work to ensure a peaceful and safe environment.
All dormitory buildings are located on campus, and both the campus and dormitories are monitored by Istanbul Okan University’s security team and a 24-hour camera system. In addition, 24/7 nursing and ambulance services are available in the dormitories, and healthcare is provided when needed.
In the shared areas of the dormitories, services such as movie days, theater performances, and football, volleyball, and basketball courts are offered free of charge for students’ social activities.
All dorm rooms and common areas are cleaned by experienced staff.
Students are offered room options in standard 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-person formats. Dorm rooms include a bathroom, WC, mini or midi refrigerator, telephone, desk, wardrobes, and a plasma TV.
Students can use our fully equipped gym and swimming pool free of charge. They also have the opportunity to use on-campus parking areas free of charge, provided they submit the required documents.
The Istanbul Okan University Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center (OPDEM) is also located on our campus and provides psychological counseling and guidance services to students who need support.
Istanbul Okan University dormitories are only 10 minutes away from Sabiha Gökçen Airport, allowing students arriving from outside the city to reach their dorms quickly. Our campus is also accessible by public transportation, and shuttle (ring) services operate on specific routes and times throughout the year.
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11.4.6 Pedestrian priority on campus
Istanbul Okan University prioritizes pedestrian access on its campus. The university has created a pedestrian-friendly campus layout that includes designated walkways, paths, and green areas. This arrangement aims to promote walking and support safe and comfortable mobility for students and staff. This approach not only improves accessibility but also encourages a more sustainable and healthier campus environment.
Examples of Pedestrian Pathways (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)
Istanbul Okan University implements the following within the scope of its pedestrian pathway policy:
These measures provide a safer, more inclusive, and environmentally friendly pedestrian network across the campus for students, academic staff, and administrative employees.
11.4.7 Local authority collaboration regarding planning and development
Istanbul Okan University addresses planning and development issues in cooperation with local authorities, including efforts to ensure that local residents have access to affordable housing. The university actively participates in initiatives and discussions with municipal leaders to contribute to community development and to help meet the housing needs of the surrounding population. This partnership reflects the university’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainable community engagement.
11.4.8 Planning development - new build standards
Istanbul Okan University constructs its new buildings in accordance with sustainable standards. The university carefully follows national and international guidelines, including those set by relevant organizations. These standards focus on energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and environmentally friendly design practices, ensuring that new developments align with the university’s commitments to sustainability and environmental responsibility.ulamalarına odaklanarak, yeni gelişmelerin üniversitenin sürdürülebilirlik ve çevre sorumluluğu taahhütleriyle uyumlu olmasını sağlamaktadır.
Example of Green Building Implementation - Copy of theIstanbul Okan University ISO50001
certification (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)
In
Türkiye, ISO 50001 Energy Management System certification is mandatory. The
establishment of an ISO 50001 Energy Management System has been made compulsory
by the end of 2023 for public buildings, commercial and service buildings,
power generation facilities, industrial sites, and organized industrial zones.
