Empowering the Future of Education: Industry and Academia Join Forces at METU Forum
The International Engineering and Technology University (METU) recently hosted the III International Forum titled “Increasing the Role of the Employer in Professional Training as an Indicator of the Quality of Educational Programs in the Context of Globalization.” The event brought together academic leaders, policy experts, and representatives from business and industry across Central Asia, Europe, and East Asia to shape a new vision for higher education—one that bridges the gap between universities and the world of work.
With rich insights, dynamic sessions, and the launch of state-of-the-art learning environments, the forum laid the foundation for stronger cooperation and more future-ready educational ecosystems.
Rethinking Education: From Theory to Workforce Readiness
A central theme of the forum was the growing need to align educational programs with evolving labor market demands. International and local experts explored how stronger engagement of employers in curriculum design and academic programming can foster greater employability and practical preparedness of students.
The event featured plenary speeches from global voices such as:
- Toni San (Huatec, China) – on innovations in skills development,
- Janar Turebekova (Atameken NCE, Kazakhstan) – on the impact of SMEs on labor market adaptability,
- Ibrahim Kubilay (Suleyman Demirel University, Turkey) – on universities as mediators between education, science, and industry,
- Khan Jin Son (Global Korea Center, Korea) – on digital transformation in manufacturing,
- Zhanna Iskenova (ACCA Central Asia) – on global education standards and international qualifications.
The interactive panels and breakout sessions addressed practical themes, such as integrating smart technologies into education, developing competence-based learning models, and promoting innovation-driven partnerships between universities and employers.
Labs, Leadership, and Long-Term Vision: Building an Ecosystem for Innovation
A major highlight of the forum was the opening of advanced research laboratories in software engineering, biochemistry, food technology, and smart technologies. These new facilities represent a significant step in enhancing hands-on learning and research-based education. Designed to foster collaboration between students, faculty, and industry professionals, the labs will serve as engines of applied innovation.
The forum also saw the signing of new cooperation agreements between METU and leading companies, laying the groundwork for internships, joint research projects, and startup incubation. Participating businesses such as “Aksay Nan,” “MaxImagine,” “Goji,” and “Prosnab-Service” were honored for their ongoing contributions to education-industry integration.
The event attracted:
- University rectors, professors, and researchers from Kazakhstan, China, Turkey, Korea, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan;
Business leaders and international organizations, including ACCA and the Global Korea Center; - Policy representatives focused on higher education and workforce development;
And more than 25 virtual participants from Osh Technological University, ensuring cross-border accessibility and reach.
Looking Ahead: From Forum Dialogue to Action
Participants expressed high satisfaction with the forum’s structure and outcomes, citing the relevance of topics, diversity of perspectives, and practical applicability of ideas. However, suggestions for improvement included adding more interactive sessions, extending panel discussion time, and launching follow-up initiatives to ensure continuity.
The forum reaffirmed the shared commitment of universities, governments, and businesses to build an agile, future-proof education system—one that not only equips students with knowledge, but empowers them to lead sustainable, tech-driven transformation in a globalized world.
