Destination: Future Program

The fourth edition of the traditional “Direction: The Future – University and Beyond” program was held at the NÛN Schools Beykoz Campus with great enthusiasm and strong participation. Aiming to connect students with the worlds of higher education and professional life on a visionary and high‑quality platform, the event brought together academics, university leaders, sector representatives, students, and parents. 

The program opened with welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Tayfun Kındap, Member of the Board and General Director of the NÛN Foundation for Education and Culture, followed by an opening speech from Dr. Esra Albayrak, Chair of the Board. In her address, Dr. Albayrak emphasized that students’ academic and career goals should extend beyond individual achievements, gaining meaning through contributions that benefit humanity and society. 

“The Paradigm Shifts: University and Beyond” 

The first session featured a panel moderated by Prof. Dr. Tamer Yılmaz, from Yıldız Technical University, focusing on the evolving structure of higher education. Speakers included Prof. Dr. Naci İnci (Rector of Bogazici University), Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur (Rector of Marmara University), Prof. Dr. Nuri Aydın (Rector of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa), and Prof. Dr. Burcu Özsoy (TUBITAK Marmara Research Center President). 

The panel explored emerging professions, the rise of interdisciplinary approaches, essential future competencies, and talent discovery processes. A shared emphasis was placed on the idea that universities are not only institutions for professional preparation, but also spaces for intellectual formation, character development, and meaning‑making. 

Psychological Strength and Professional Values 

In the following session, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Dinç delivered a talk on “Psychological Strength in Career Development,” highlighting resilience, motivation, and inner balance. This was followed by Mehmet Yücel Atış, Manager at the Prometheus Consultant Group, who addressed “Professional Values in Professional Life,” sharing insights into ethical principles and current business dynamics.  

One Step Forward for the Future 

After the main sessions, students, parents, and staff visited university booths set up outdoors on the Grils' Campus. Students have the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from leading universities, gaining first‑hand insights into academic programs and career paths, and physical opportunities. 

The universities attended:  Boğaziçi University, Istanbul Technical University, Yıldız Technical University, Marmara University, Istanbul University, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Foundation University, Ibn Haldun University, Turkish-German University, 29 Mayıs University, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Bezmialem Foundation University and Biruni University. 

At NÛN Schools, we place strong emphasis on nurturing individuals who understand themselves holistically, recognize their interests and talents, and make choices grounded in a deep sense of civilizational awareness. By bringing them together with accomplished professionals, we continue to guide them on their journey toward the future. 

Click here to watch the video for our "Destination: Future" program.