As knowledge grows richer day by day and wisdom gains depth, becoming an issue for all countries through internationalization, universities around the world are being compelled to restructure themselves. Regardless of the country in which they are located, every university must now be not only a research-oriented institution but also an institution that implements and applies knowledge.
In the new century, the values of the information society—where entrepreneurs occupy a central position—will become more determinative than those of the industrial society, in which machines were central. In the production of goods, services, and knowledge, entrepreneurs who establish balance and coherence between supply and demand will mobilize the latent potential inherent in individuals.
Universities that cultivate entrepreneurs are institutions that effectively harness the intrinsic motivation and latent energy of both their academic staff and students. Rather than producing graduates who merely seek employment, such universities aim to educate individuals capable of establishing and developing their own enterprises. Institutions that prioritize entrepreneurship, supported by entrepreneurial students and distinguished faculty members, will serve as key drivers of Turkey’s structural transformation.
Maltepe University endeavors to equip its students with an “actor” identity. For a student to attain the status of an “actor student,” it is essential to possess clearly defined goals, demonstrate sustained effort toward achieving those goals, acquire substantial knowledge and experience within their field, and exhibit initiative, entrepreneurial competence, innovativeness, and a strong sense of social responsibility. In the contemporary context, the primary objective is no longer merely gaining admission to a university, but rather graduating as a qualified professional and an active contributor to the future. In alignment with these competitive conditions, Maltepe University aims to graduate individuals who do not seek employment but create it; who generate opportunities and added value; and who are consequently sought after in the labor market.
Maltepe University has advanced toward this objective through the establishment of the Entrepreneurship and Business Development Center (MÜGİM). The principal mission of the Center is to provide students and academic staff with the knowledge, competencies, and guidance necessary to transform innovative and entrepreneurial ideas into viable projects, and to facilitate access to relevant resources.
Entrepreneurs may benefit from the support of MÜGİM at all stages of the entrepreneurial process, from the emergence of a business idea to project design and subsequent implementation. The Center fulfills this mission through the following activities:
- Organizing conferences, study visits, and similar events aimed at fostering an entrepreneurial culture within the University and revitalizing the entrepreneurial spirit of its members.
- Providing mentorship, consultation, and advisory support, particularly during the early stages of idea development.
- Delivering courses and training programs on entrepreneurship, innovation, business plan development, and related topics.
- Establishing agreements and strategic collaborations with public institutions, private sector organizations, and non-governmental organizations.
- Organizing competitions to promote and reward successful business ideas and to facilitate their implementation, as well as encouraging participation in national and international competitions.
- Supporting the activities and entrepreneurial initiatives of all student clubs, particularly the Entrepreneurship Club.
- Establishing a specialized library to ensure the sustainability and institutionalization of an entrepreneurial culture.
Emphasizing the importance of acquiring foreign language proficiency (particularly in English) to closely monitor global developments and enhance intercultural competence.
Center Director
Res. Asst. Adife Ahsen ÇETİN