IUS Launches Double Diploma Program with UHS and Inaugurates New Faculty of Medical Sciences

The event, held on the IUS campus, drew several hundred attendees, including distinguished guests from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Türkiye—leaders and experts in medical sciences, higher education, diplomacy, and media. The full amphitheater bore witness to a day that will be remembered as a turning point for the future of medical education in the region.

Bilingual Double Diploma Program Launched

The event opened with a speech from Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, Rector of IUS, who warmly welcomed the audience and highlighted the importance of this academic partnership. “This collaboration with UHS, one of the top 100 universities globally in medical sciences, brings immense value to our academic landscape,” he said. Prof. Dr. Yıldırım elaborated that the newly launched program is bilingual, with students studying the first three years of theoretical coursework in English at IUS, followed by three years of clinical training in Turkish at UHS-affiliated hospitals. Upon graduation, students will earn two diplomas, fully recognized in both countries.

A Strong Partnership with Global Impact

The Rector of UHS, Prof. Dr. Kemalettin Aydın, expressed pride in joining forces with IUS on this forward-looking program. “This is not just a cooperation between two institutions, but a strategic educational bridge between two nations. IUS is known for its academic quality, and now its students will benefit from Türkiye’s advanced infrastructure in medical sciences,” said Prof. Dr. Aydın. He shared that UHS has 26 hospitals in its network, offering future students diverse practical experiences in real clinical environments.

He also extended his gratitude to Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kurtulmuş, President of the IUS Board of Trustees, for her instrumental role in initiating this international collaboration.

Vision and Dedication Behind the Project

Prof. Dr. Kurtulmuş addressed the attendees and expressed sincere thanks to all who made the launch possible. “This journey was not easy, but our persistence and belief in the vision have led us to this proud moment,” she said. She emphasized that the newly established Faculty of Medical Sciences will be dedicated to producing competent and ethical doctors and dentists, contributing not only to local communities but also globally.

Strengthening Bosnia–Türkiye Educational Ties

H.E. Emin Akseki, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted the longstanding and profound ties between the two nations. “BiH and Türkiye share a history of cooperation and common values. This double diploma program is a direct result of the visionary policy of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who continuously supports international academic and infrastructural initiatives like this,” he said.

Hüseyin Kürşat Kırbıyık, Deputy Minister of Health of the Republic of Türkiye, noted the major transformation Türkiye has undergone in the field of health over the past two decades. “With 1,500 hospitals, of which 700 are university clinics, and over 3 million citizens receiving care daily, Türkiye has established itself as a global leader in healthcare infrastructure. This collaboration with IUS is a natural extension of our commitment to global medical excellence,” he said.

Local Government Endorsement and Support

Mr. Enis Hasanović, Minister of Health of Canton Sarajevo, also delivered a powerful address. “This partnership represents a major leap forward for our canton’s medical education sector. At a time when healthcare systems face immense challenges, educating future professionals is the best investment we can make. On behalf of the Government of Sarajevo Canton, we offer our full support to IUS,” he declared.

His sentiments were echoed by Mrs. Azemina Njuhović, Assistant Minister of Higher Education and Science of Sarajevo Canton, who praised IUS for continuously raising academic standards. “The opening of this program further strengthens the educational bridge between BiH and Türkiye,” she stated.

Türkiye’s Educational Expertise Shared

Ömer Faruk Yelkenci, Deputy Minister of National Education of Türkiye, commended IUS for this landmark occasion and expressed satisfaction that the partnership was formed with one of Türkiye’s finest institutions in medical sciences. “With 8 million students in our higher education system and vast experience in fields like engineering and medicine, we are proud to share our knowledge and collaborate with an institution like IUS,” he said.

Signing of Protocols and Future Outlook

The highlight of the event was the official signing of the protocols for the establishment of international undergraduate joint programs in General Medicine and Dental Medicine. The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Kemalettin Aydın of UHS and Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım of IUS, formalizing the beginning of this ambitious academic venture.

The ceremony concluded with the exchange of commemorative gifts among dignitaries, symbolizing mutual respect and shared commitment to advancing international medical education.

With this joint initiative, IUS not only strengthens its academic offerings but also reaffirms its position as a hub for international cooperation in education. The new Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Double Diploma Program are expected to attract students from across the region and beyond, shaping the next generation of globally trained healthcare professionals.