OMU signs strategic academic partnership with Virscend University at NAFSA 2026

ORLANDO, USA - As part of its internationalization strategy, Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) has signed a significant cooperation agreement with Virscend University, one of the leading higher education institutions in the United States, during the NAFSA 2026 Annual Conference & Expo (26–29 May) taking place in Orlando, Florida.

The agreement covers collaboration in education and research and represents another important step in OMU’s efforts to expand its global academic network.

Academic diplomacy strengthens international partnerships

The agreement, achieved through the intensive academic diplomacy efforts of the OMU delegation, was signed by OMU Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın and Virscend University Vice President Prof. Dr. Cihan Çobanoğlu on behalf of their respective institutions.

Attending the signing ceremony on behalf of OMU were Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, Rector’s Advisor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Begüm Korunur Engiz, Head of the International Relations Office Dr. Ahmet Aycan, and Erasmus Institutional Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Tütüncü.

Prof. Dr. Cihan Çobanoğlu was accompanied by representatives from Virscend University’s international relations office.

Joint research and exchange opportunities

The agreement aims to establish strong academic and scientific ties between OMU and Virscend University, which is located in Irvine, California.

Within the scope of the partnership, the two institutions plan to take concrete steps toward student and faculty exchange programs, the development of joint research projects, the organization of scientific meetings and conferences, and the exploration of dual degree opportunities.

The collaboration is expected to contribute to the international visibility of both universities while creating new opportunities for academic cooperation, research, and student mobility.