On April 14, 2026, Comrat State University hosted a ceremony dedicated to awarding a certificate of participation in the Erasmus+ program to student Füsun Arıcı, representing Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University. Within the framework of academic mobility, the student completed a 15-day internship at CSU, which became an important step in strengthening bilateral cooperation between educational institutions of Gagauzia and the Republic of Türkiye.
The ceremony was held in an official setting and included discussions on key areas of cooperation between the universities. In her speech, Füsun Arıcı expressed sincere gratitude to the university administration and academic staff for the invitation and warm hospitality. She emphasized the importance of participation in international educational programs, noting that such initiatives contribute not only to students’ professional development but also to the strengthening of intercultural dialogue.
During the meeting, the parties exchanged information about the structure and academic opportunities of their universities and discussed prospects for expanding partnerships, including joint scientific and educational projects.
As part of the visit, a detailed report on the activities of Comrat State University was prepared. Special attention was given to the preservation and development of the Gagauz language as a key element of the region’s cultural identity. University representatives presented information about faculties, educational programs, and language centers, which play an essential role in training specialists and promoting multilingual education.
Particular emphasis was placed on international cooperation, especially strong ties with Turkish universities and institutions. It was noted that the Turkish side has for many years provided significant support to the development of Gagauzia, including infrastructure modernization, educational initiatives, and support for scientific research.
During her visit, Füsun Arıcı also conducted an interview with the Rector of CSU, Doctor, Associate Professor Serghei Zaharia. The discussion covered issues of strategic development of the university, its role in the regional education system, and prospects for expanding international cooperation. The Rector emphasized the importance of CSU’s participation in the Erasmus+ program, noting that academic mobility enhances experience exchange, improves education quality, and strengthens the university’s international reputation.
In addition to the official program, considerable attention was given to cultural exchange. In an informal setting, participants discussed the lifestyle, traditions, and customs of Gagauz villages. Füsun Arıcı shared her impressions of staying with a Gagauz family, where she had the opportunity to participate in Easter celebrations. She noted that the celebration strictly followed traditional customs, including ritual dishes, family traditions, and a warm atmosphere of hospitality, which allowed her to better understand the culture and mentality of the Gagauz people.
As a sign of respect and remembrance, the Rector presented the guest with a commemorative gift — a catalog book featuring photographs of Gagauz national jewelry. This gift symbolizes the richness of Gagauz cultural heritage and highlights the importance of its preservation and promotion internationally.
During the meetings, similarities between Gagauz and Turkish traditions were also discussed, including elements of daily life, family values, and cultural practices. Participants noted that historical and cultural proximity contributes to deeper mutual understanding and stronger partnerships.
Special attention was also given to projects implemented in Gagauzia with the support of the Republic of Türkiye, particularly in education, social development, and culture, demonstrating Türkiye’s significant contribution to infrastructure modernization and improving quality of life.
At the end of the meeting, participants highlighted the role of prominent Turkish statesmen in supporting Gagauzia and international cooperation, including Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Süleyman Demirel.
The event marked an important step in strengthening international cooperation, developing academic mobility, and deepening cultural ties between Gagauzia and Türkiye.
