Comrat State University has successfully completed the academic mobility of Önder Karataş, a doctoral student from Aksaray University, implemented within the framework of the Erasmus+ Short-Term Doctoral Traineeship Mobility programme. The traineeship took place from April 13 to April 29, 2026.
The doctoral student, enrolled in the Department of History at Aksaray University, carried out a research traineeship at the Department of Gagauz Philology and History of Comrat State University. During the first days, introductory meetings were held with the academic supervisor, along with a study of the university library collections related to the history and origin of the Gagauz people. The doctoral student conducted research in the university’s scientific library, analysing publications on historical and linguistic aspects of Gagauz development.
During the traineeship, field observations were organised in Gagauzia, including the municipality of Comrat and nearby settlements. As part of these visits, Önder Karataş explored the cultural heritage of the region and examined the functioning of the Gagauz language in everyday life and the public sphere. Ethnographic research activities were carried out, including visits to museums and cultural centres. As a result, visual and descriptive materials reflecting the traditional material culture of the Gagauz people were collected. Additionally, within the traineeship, the doctoral student delivered an open lecture titled Geçmişi Aydınlatan Kalemler for students of Comrat State University, sharing his research findings.
At the conclusion of the mobility, a certificate of participation was awarded by the Rector of Comrat State University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serghei Zaharia. During the final meeting, the outcomes of the traineeship were summarised, participants exchanged impressions of the work carried out, discussed the scientific results obtained, and outlined prospects for future academic cooperation and joint research initiatives.
The implementation of such international traineeships plays a significant role in fostering scientific cooperation, promoting academic exchange, and strengthening intercultural dialogue. Participation of young researchers in Erasmus+ programmes broadens scientific horizons, stimulates interdisciplinary research, and supports the integration of universities into the international educational space.
