Goal 16: Promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies
SDG 16.2.1. Elected representation
Istanbul Okan University has elected representation on the university's highest governing body. This includes elected representatives from various stakeholder groups such as faculty members, administrative staff, and student bodies, ensuring that diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes at the institutional level.
Istanbul Okan University has a diverse elected representation on the university’s highest governing body, the Senate, University Board and the Advisory Board.
The University's General Secretary is a non-academic member of the University's Board and represents non-faculty employees. The other members of the University Board are faculty members.
SDG 16.2.2. Students’ union
The establishment of student unions is acknowledged and facilitated by Istanbul Okan University:
- The Dean of Students supervises the democratic process of Student Council elections in November. The faculty representatives are determined by the representatives elected by each department. From the faculty representatives, the Student Council's elected chairperson is selected. Because Istanbul Okan University is a State University, it is required to comply with the laws of the Turkish Constitution and national regulations regarding the right to form and join unions without prior permission (refer to ARTICLE 51 of the Turkish Constitution). Therefore, university approval is not required for the formation of a student union. Consequently, Istanbul Okan University recognises the autonomy of students to establish student unions.
Click here to read Okan’s Student Council Directive
SDG 16.2.3. Identify and engage with local stakeholders
Istanbul Okan University has implemented a Stakeholder Engagement Policy and procedures to identify local stakeholders. The university, in accordance with its Quality Assurance System, identifies both internal and external stakeholders under the guidance of its Strategic Plan. It reviews and analyses them annually and makes relevant revisions as required. Each year, surveys are administered to internal and external stakeholders to collect their feedback. Furthermore, Istanbul Okan University assesses the involvement of its internal and external stakeholders in university processes annually through the Institutional Internal Evaluation Report.
SDG 16.2.4. Participatory bodies for stakeholder engagement
The Stakeholders Engagement Policy is in place at Istanbul Okan University, which establishes guidelines for stakeholder engagement and communication. The objective of this policy is to guarantee that stakeholder engagement activities are transparent, systematic, and effective. It incorporates all university employees and students who are involved in stakeholder engagement activities. In addition, Istanbul Okan University prioritises its stakeholders as a result of its commitment to social good.
Stakeholders are actively involved in the decision-making processes at Istanbul Okan University. In 2022, the Turkish Higher Education Quality Council (YÖKAK) administered the External Evaluation Program at our university, during which evaluators and external stakeholders convened to provide valuable feedback on a variety of aspects of our institution. For additional information, please consult the Institutional Accreditation Report for Istanbul Okan University, which was prepared by the Turkish Higher Education Quality Council.
Click here to see Institutional Accreditation Report
SDG 16.2.5. University principles on corruption and bribery
Istanbul Okan University has disclosed its principles and obligations with respect to corruption, bribery, and organised crime. The university is committed to adhering to the Republic of Turkey's Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption policy, which strongly condemns any instances of corruption and bribery. Additionally, Istanbul Okan University is dedicated to the prevention of bribery and will not tolerate any form of unlawful conduct or bribery, whether it is carried out by employees, individuals, or organisations that provide services to the university, whether they are located in Turkey or abroad.
Click here to see Corruption and Bribery Policy
SDG 16.2.6 Academic freedom policy
The principle of academic freedom is the right of academicians to express themselves freely in the context of teaching, learning, research, publication, and service. Istanbul Okan University maintains a policy that promotes academic freedom as an institution that is dedicated to societal impact, research, learning, and teaching.
Click here to see Academic Freedom Policy
SDG 16.3.1. Provide expert advice to government
By participating in committees, delivering policy guidance, and providing evidence at local, regional, and national levels, the academic and administrative staff of Istanbul Okan University are able to provide particular expert advice to local, regional, and national government. This advice is provided through a variety of channels.
Major of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Ekrem İmamoğlu visit to Istanbul Okan University
SDG 16.3.2. Policy- and lawmakers outreach and education
Istanbul Okan University provides outreach, general education, upskilling, and capacity-building to policymakers and lawmakers on relevant topics such as economics, law, technology, migration and displacement, and climate change. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative research projects, the university aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of decision-makers, helping them to formulate informed policies that address pressing societal and environmental challenges. By fostering a dialogue between academia and policymakers, the university contributes to effective governance and sustainable development.
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SDG 16.3.3. Participation in government research
Istanbul Okan University undertakes policy-focused research in collaboration with government departments. This collaborative research aims to address various societal and environmental issues by providing evidence-based recommendations and solutions. By working closely with governmental bodies, the university contributes its academic expertise to inform policy development, enhance public understanding, and promote effective governance on critical matters such as sustainability, public health, and social welfare.
SDG 16.3.4. Neutral platform to discuss issues
Istanbul Okan University provides a neutral platform and a "safe" space for different political stakeholders to come together and discuss challenges openly. The university hosts forums, panels, and discussions that encourage dialogue among various political entities, allowing them to share perspectives, address concerns, and collaborate on solutions to pressing issues. By fostering an inclusive environment for dialogue, the university promotes understanding and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, contributing to constructive political discourse.
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SDG 16.4.1 Indicator: Proportion of graduates in law
