Establishment of Istanbul University

Historical Significance and Background

On November 12, 1925, the name of Istanbul Darülfünûnu was changed to Istanbul University and it was restructured based on the modern university system. This event is considered as a significant turning point in Turkey's education system.

In the historical context of the time, the Republic of Turkey was facing a new state structure and modernization process. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic and its first President, aimed to restructure the education system in order to create a modern society.

The developments prior to this event begin with the establishment of Istanbul Darülfünûnu during the Ottoman Empire. Reforms in education during the final periods of the Ottoman Empire, including sending students abroad and teaching modern sciences, contributed to the development of Darülfünûn.

Development of the Event

Restructuring of Darülfünûn

On November 12, 1925, Istanbul Darülfünûnu was restructured as Istanbul University. This restructuring process included a reform movement based on the modern university system. The new university system aimed to provide students with a wide range of academic opportunities with a more contemporary educational approach.

Expansion and Reorganization of Programs

With the restructuring process, Istanbul University's programs were expanded and reorganized. Students were offered education in fields such as medicine, law, literature, science, economics, and many others. This aimed to provide specialization in different professions to meet the needs of Turkey.

Establishment of New Staff and Appointment of Faculty Members

New staff was established and faculty members were appointed for the restructured Istanbul University. During this process, expert academics from foreign countries were invited to Turkey, and Turkish faculty members also received education abroad to contribute to the university. This aimed to improve the quality of the university and make it recognized as an educational institution at an international level.

Results and Impacts

The establishment and restructuring of Istanbul University led to significant results in Turkey's education system and society. Among its short-term effects are the contribution of the university's specialized graduates to the business world and public services.

Its long-term results contributed to Turkey's scientific and academic development. Istanbul University has hosted many important scientific researches and produced many prominent scientists for the country.

This event also led to social and political changes. With the establishment of Istanbul University, efforts to create a modern education system and modernize society gained momentum in Turkey. During this process, university students and academics played leadership roles in various sectors of society, contributing to social changes.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

The establishment and restructuring of Istanbul University is an important step for Turkey to create a modern education system. This event took on the mission of being the center of education in Turkey's modernization process.

Today, Istanbul University is considered one of Turkey's oldest and most prestigious universities. The university is internationally recognized for its research conducted in various fields, and its graduates hold important positions.

The courses introduced with the establishment of Istanbul University reflect its impact on Turkey's education system and society. This event supports Turkey's efforts to provide more freedom and diversity in education and aims to have a competitive education system internationally.