Trakya University re-elected as President of Balkan Universities Association

Trakya University has been unanimously re-elected to the presidency of the Balkan Universities Association for the 2027–2028 term, reaffirming its leading role in regional academic cooperation.

The decision was announced during the 9th General Assembly of the BUA, hosted by the University of Montenegro.

Strengthening Regional Academic Cooperation
During the assembly, representatives from member universities discussed key issues related to academic collaboration, research partnerships, and cultural exchange across the Balkan region.

Mustafa Hatipler, Rector of Trakya University, highlighted the organization’s progress since its founding in 2014, noting that it has evolved into a strong network connecting higher education institutions across the Balkans.

He emphasized that the association has significantly contributed to enhancing the region’s role within the European Higher Education Area through joint academic and scientific initiatives.

Expansion of Membership
The General Assembly also approved the admission of several new member institutions, expanding the association’s network.

New members include:

• Istanbul Nisantasi University
• Sakarya University
• Suleyman Demirel University
• Uskudar University
• Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa
• Bursa Uludag University
• Istanbul Beykent University
• Baku Slavic University
• University of Banja Luka
• University of Slavonski Brod
• Algebra Bernays University

With these additions, the total number of BUA member institutions has risen to 112 universities.

A Renewed Mandate
Following the formal signing ceremony for new members, Trakya University was unanimously elected to lead the association for the upcoming term.

Rector Hatipler expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the university, stating that the presidency represents a significant responsibility to further strengthen cooperation among Balkan higher education institutions.

Founded on April 21, 2014, in Edirne under the leadership of Trakya University, the Balkan Universities Association aims to foster collaboration among universities in the region. Its permanent secretariat continues to operate within Trakya University.