A cooperation protocol aimed at developing, strengthening, and promoting relations was signed between Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) and Arkin University of Creative Arts and Design (ARUCAD). The signing ceremony took place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 12:00 at the EMU Rectorate, where the protocol was signed by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and ARUCAD Rector Prof. Dr. Asım Vehbi.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, along with Rectorate Private Secretary Kazım Hakverdi.
In his speech, ARUCAD Rector Prof. Dr. Asım Vehbi expressed his gratitude for EMU’s hospitality and emphasized that universities around the world strive to establish international collaborations. He noted that universities on the island have lagged behind in terms of cooperation for a long time, and stated that EMU has taken initiative to fill this gap by leading efforts to foster collaboration among universities. Prof. Dr. Vehbi added that ARUCAD is honored to collaborate with EMU, one of the most established universities in the country, and expressed their intention to carry out joint projects in the fields of art, design, and communication.
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, in his remarks, stated that EMU is committed to developing collaborative projects and strengthening relations with other universities, and that the protocol signed today is a result of these efforts. He continued: “As universities, we are all in the same boat. Therefore, we must first establish strong foundations for cooperation among ourselves. Contributing to our goals and to the advancement of higher education is of great importance. ARUCAD is a distinguished and reputable university in the country, particularly in the fields of creative arts and design. We believe that this meaningful collaboration will lead to successful outcomes and valuable work. I wish this partnership to be beneficial for both institutions.”
At the end of the signing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Vehbi presented a gift to Prof. Dr. Kılıç, while Prof. Dr. Kılıç also presented a Cyprus-themed gift to Prof. Dr. Vehbi.
