İpek Cem Taha, the Director of Global Centers at Columbia University, one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, was invited as a guest speaker in the AGU Talks event held at Abdullah Gül University (AGU). Taha delivered a speech ti
İpek Cem Taha, who is also a businessperson and author, provided information about the significance of Columbia University during her speech at the "AGU Talks" held at the Abdullah Gül Presidential Museum and Library Hall on the Sümer Campus.
Having served as an executive in prominent companies such as Sabancı Holding and Coca-Cola- Türkiye, as well as being a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, İpek Cem Taha discussed Columbia University's global programs and its activities in Türkiye at the AGU Talks.
Taha highlighted the key factors contributing to the success of American universities like Columbia University, particular emphasis on the investments and support provided to these institutions. She underscored the importance of utilizing these resources to support scientific research and acknowledged the value of multidisciplinary academic opportunities offered to students.
İpek Cem Taha stated, "Academic autonomy, the independent structure of universities, the encouragement of different ideas, and the ability to discuss them, as well as openness to innovation and scientific discoveries, especially in terms of research and technological advancements, are among the fundamental factors behind the success of American universities. We are able to achieve this to some extent in Türkiye as well."
Reminding the audience that Istanbul is home to one of Columbia University's 11 Global Centers, Taha indicated that they started their initiatives in Istanbul in 2012. She expressed their aim is to engage in academic activities, conduct research on global and regional issues, and share the values of our country, region, and city, and actively participate in the global community.
The event concluded with a Q&A session and was attended not only by students but also by notable individuals, including Prof. Dr. Cengiz Yılmaz, AGU Rector; Prof. Dr. Ahmet Fazıl Özsoylu, the Rector of Nuh Naci Yazgan University; Prof. Dr. Erkan Köse, Vice Rector of NNYU; Prof. Dr. Erk Hacıhasanoğlu, Vice Rector of AGU; Merve İspahani, the Director of Academic Programs at Columbia Global Centers, and many other distinguished guests.
