The “Education Services Sector Agency Workshop” organized by the Education Services Committee of the Service Exporters Association (HİB) was held with significant participation. The workshop, chaired by Prof. Dr. Mustafa Aydın, Vice President of the HİB Board of Directors and Chairman of the Education Services Committee, with the participation of Tarık Sönmez, Director General of International Service Trade at the Ministry of Trade, and Dr. Fatih Özer, Secretary General of the Association, aimed to evaluate the views and suggestions of universities and agencies operating in the education services sector.
During the workshop, the views and suggestions of universities and agencies operating in the education services sector were evaluated. Important assessments were made regarding the current state of the sector and strategies for the future, with solution proposals presented. Participants agreed that strengthening the cooperation between universities and agencies would significantly contribute to the sector. The need to resolve sectoral issues and take steps to establish a healthier structure was also emphasized.
The workshop highlighted the significant economic potential of the education services sector. This year, educational exports reached $2.1 billion, with expectations for them to increase to $2.4-2.5 billion by 2025. Turkey ranks 10th globally in terms of foreign student numbers, and it was emphasized that increasing the country’s brand value is key to boosting its revenue rankings. The need to support the branding process of universities and strengthen the role of agencies in the sector was underlined.
The workshop concluded with solution proposals aimed at building a stronger foundation for the sector. The importance of strengthening Turkey’s position in the international education services market was emphasized, not only for economic reasons but also for cultural and diplomatic opportunities. In this new phase, it was stressed that all stakeholders must work together to achieve common goals.