A Second Award for Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu from Students
Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu has been awarded for the second consecutive time in the ‘rector performance evaluation’ determined by student votes. According to the research titled TUMA 2026 published by the University Assessments & Research Laboratory (UniAr), Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu achieved great pride by successfully securing a spot on the list of Turkey's top 12 most successful rectors and winning the silver award. Thanking his students, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “Rather than a personal achievement, I see this award as a value placed on the trust, sincerity, and culture of collaboration that we have built together with our students at our University.”
Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu, who has earned a respected place in the scientific world with his studies in the field of microbiology, started working at Izmir University of Economics in 2015 and became the founding dean of the faculty of medicine. Laying the foundation for one of the best medical faculties in Turkey with his knowledge and experience, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu took responsibility for many matters, from the formation of the academic staff to the determination of course content. Drawing attention with his strong communication with students and his projects, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu was appointed to the position of rector in 2023.
HIS BOND WITH STUDENTS NEVER BROKE
Taking steps to support the social, cultural, and personal development of young people in line with the demands of the IUE Student Council, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu held regular meetings with students from all faculties during the semester. Listening to the suggestions of the youth and the innovations they wanted to see on campus, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu implemented significant changes in many areas, ranging from the gym to social facilities and classrooms. Awarded in the rector performance evaluation published by UniAr last year, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu sustained his success this year as well, finding himself among the most successful rectors in Turkey in the TUMA 2026 research.
“WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE INNOVATIVE AND STUDENT-ORIENTED”
Expressing his happiness at receiving such a meaningful award as a result of student evaluations, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “Universities are living spaces where young people can freely express their thoughts, discover themselves, grow their dreams, and prepare for the future. Our duty is to listen to our students, accurately understand their needs, and continuously increase the opportunities that support their development. Since the first day I took office, I have attached great importance to establishing open, direct, and strong communication with our students. We have not just listened to their views, but have tried to include them in the development processes of our University. Because I believe that the ideas of young people are one of the most important resources shaping the future of our University. Guided by science, we will continue to progress with an innovative and student-oriented approach that centers on collective intellect.”
