
SDG 17.2 Relationships to support the goals
SDG 17.2.1 Relationships with regional NGOs and government for SDG policy
Istanbul Okan University carries out ongoing collaborations with public institutions and civil society organizations in order to support the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national and regional policy processes. The University provides academic contributions to policy development, impact analysis, and implementation monitoring in the fields of sustainable development, social inclusion, environmental responsibility, and economic resilience.
Within this scope, the University plays an active role—together with relevant stakeholders—in identifying priority sustainability challenges, developing evidence-based policy recommendations, and evaluating the alignment of implemented policies with the SDGs. These collaborations are carried out through research projects, consultancy activities, joint reporting, and capacity-building initiatives.
We have signed a sustainability cooperation protocol

A Cooperation Protocol has been signed with Teknopark İstanbul
A cooperation with Teknopark İstanbul

Visit to OPINA at the Ministry of Industry and Technology

SDG 17.2.2 Cross sectoral dialogue about SDGs
Istanbul Okan University regularly promotes cross-sectoral dialogue on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multi-stakeholder platforms that bring together public institutions, the private sector, and civil society organizations. Conferences, workshops, and panel events organized and/or supported by the University aim to foster a shared understanding of the SDGs, facilitate the exchange of good practices, and identify areas for collective action.
These activities are not one-off events; rather, they are ongoing knowledge-sharing and collaboration mechanisms sustained regularly in line with the University’s institutional sustainability approach.
Participated in the 2053 Vision Workshop on international student recruitment

Panel on the future of artificial intelligence in higher education
The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education

The Grand Gathering event

Turkey–China Economic Forum (featured in the media)
Turkey–China Economic Forum (organization)

SDG 17.2.3 International collaboration data gathering for SDG
Istanbul Okan University participates in data collection and measurement activities within the framework of international research networks and academic collaborations in order to monitor progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The University contributes to globally conducted research projects aimed at developing sustainability indicators, producing comparable data, and supporting evidence-based policy processes related to sustainable development.
These efforts are carried out as part of the University’s research-based decision-making and transparent reporting approach.
We have signed a sustainability cooperation protocol
Sustainability Cooperation Protocol

Presentations at an international medical congress
International Medical Congress
Visit by students from Tsinghua University Zhili College
Tsinghua University Zhili College

Visit by the medical delegation from Kimyo International University
Kimyo International University

SDG 17.2.4 Collaboration for SDG best practice
Istanbul Okan University continues its efforts to comparatively examine and disseminate good practices related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through international academic and institutional partnerships. The University collaborates with global experts to develop innovative approaches in sustainable development, adapt effective strategies, and strengthen institutional capacity.
These collaborations support the development of sustainable solutions through joint research, knowledge sharing, and the transfer of practices.
China Bridge Competition achievements
The Chinese Language Examination Center receiving an award
The Chinese Language Examination Center

SDG 17.2.5 Collaboration with NGOs for SDGs
Istanbul Okan University conducts structured and long-term partnerships with civil society organizations in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These collaborations include student volunteer programs, joint research projects, the development of educational materials, and activities aimed at enhancing societal capacity.
Through these partnerships, the University aims to increase social impact, support knowledge production, and raise awareness of sustainable development at the local and national levels.
Participated in the 2053 Vision Workshop on international student recruitment
The 2053 Vision Workshop on international student recruitment

SDG 17.3 Publication of SDG reports
Istanbul Okan University regularly reports on its activities and progress related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and shares this information with the public. The sustainability reports published by the University are prepared in line with the principles of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement, and they demonstrate the institution’s contribution to the SDGs.
Our University ranked 4th in the THE Impact Rankings 2025!
We have been included in the 2025 UI GreenMetric Ranking
The 2025 UI GreenMetric Ranking

Our University has risen in the Times Higher Education 2024 Rankings!
The Times Higher Education 2024 Rankings!

SDG 17.3.1 to SDG 17.3.17 Publication of SDG Reports - per SDG
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SDG 17.4 Education for the SDGs
SDG 17.4.1 Education for SDGs commitment to meaningful education
Istanbul Okan University is committed to providing all students with meaningful education on relevant and actionable Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The University integrates SDG-related content into various courses and programs in order to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a sustainable future.
SDG 17.4.2 Education for SDGs: specific courses on sustainability
Istanbul Okan University offers dedicated courses (full programs or elective courses) that address sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By providing a range of academic programs and specialized courses focused on sustainable development, environmental studies, and related fields, the University equips students with in-depth knowledge and expertise in these critical areas.
SDG 17.4.3 Education for SDGs in the wider community
Istanbul Okan University carries out education and capacity-building activities for different segments of society within the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These activities are planned to include alumni, local communities, and disadvantaged groups.
Within this framework, in line with the protocol signed between the Vocational School and Model Bilgi Hizmetleri, students’ access to applied training, internship, and employment opportunities is supported. The collaboration aims to establish a sustainable university–industry cooperation model through domestic software technologies, applied courses, joint projects, and sectoral knowledge sharing.
Cooperation Achieved Through Protocol
With the protocol signed between our Vocational School Director, Dr. Işılay Bilgiç, and the General Manager of Model Bilgi Hizmetleri, Atila Zeybek, it is aimed that students of the Computer Technologies Department will work as interns at the Model company and participate in practical application courses. In addition, this initiative seeks to facilitate the employment of graduating students as full-time employees.
The collaboration also includes the organization of seminars titled “Domestic Language Business Application Development and Operations Platform,” where experiences related to business applications on the Model ERP system are shared. Furthermore, laboratory courses on domestic programming languages and software development environments will be conducted, and joint projects will be carried out. This partnership will also encompass participation in career events organized by the University and the sharing of sectoral experience, thereby establishing a sustainable university–industry cooperation model.

Study at Okan (uluslararası öğrenci portalı)
International Students
Erasmus Program
ISEP Exchange Program
Fulbright Program
Academic Cooperation Agreements
Academic Cooperation Agreements
SDG 17.4.4 Sustainability Literacy
Istanbul Okan University systematically measures and evaluates the sustainability literacy levels of its students. These assessments cover students’ competencies in understanding sustainability concepts, applying them, and incorporating them into daily life.
In addition, the University supports the dissemination of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to wider communities by organizing public trainings, seminars, and awareness-raising activities on sustainable development topics.



Design projects by Italian students
Design projects by Italian students

Student sports achievements

Balkan Championship Title

Employment of a graduate at a Michelin-starred restaurant
Employment of a graduate at a Michelin-starred restaurant
