Intro

ITU: A Historic University Making History in Education and Innovation

The dynamic administration of the Istanbul Technical University (ITU) led by Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammed Sahin since August 2008, has placed sustainability in the core of its values. The four major cornerstones of his vision include: entrepreneurship, quality in education, research and most importantly innovation. In order to make these cornerstones solid and sustainable, major projects have been planned and implemented in rapid time.

Introduction and Background

Engaging and inspiring young people in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) has long been identified as an area of key strategic importance economically, developmentally and socially . Studies such as the Royal Society’s 2005 “Taking a Leading Role” identify role models and meeting professional scientists as key factors in career and study choices, while organizations such as STEMNET have been formed to “increase young people’s choices and chances through STEM.”

Introduction

The Jean Monnet Information and Research Activity on EU Foreign Policy and DEMocracy Promotion in the Mediterranean area (EUDEM) – coordinated by prof. Stefania Panebianco - was funded by the LLP of the European Commission and carried out by the University of Catania. The project appeared to timely grasp the winds of democratic change blowing in the Mediterranean area. Even if the research topic was identified in January 2010, it became even more relevant in 2011, when popular uprisings took place in many Arab countries.