South Marmara Global Horizons Program

The South Marmara Global Horizons Program (SMGHP) was initiated through a protocol signed on February 27, 2025, under the coordination of the South Marmara Development Agency (GMKA), in collaboration with Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Balıkesir University, and Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University. The program aims to enhance the region's cultural diplomacy and contribute to regional development by improving the networking capabilities of local enterprises.

Program Objectives

The program is structured around two main axes:

1. Cultural Diplomacy: International students studying at the three universities in the South Marmara Region are encouraged to establish cultural bridges between their home countries and the region, acting as ambassadors of goodwill.

2. Export Competence: By providing training to international students, the program aims to enhance their competencies and match them with local firms, thereby increasing the export capacities of these enterprises through human resource support.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, the program plans to expand its scope to include the services and tourism sectors. By incorporating areas such as social development and tourism diplomacy, the program aims to broaden its impact and establish a sustainable model through national and international funding opportunities.

Training Modules

From April 2025 onwards, international students selected by Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Balıkesir University, and Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University will receive training in the following areas:

• International Trade and Market Dynamics

• Legal Regulations in International Trade

• Intercultural Communication and Business Relationship Management

• International Sales Techniques

• Effective Mentorship and Consultancy Methodologies

These training sessions, comprising both theoretical and practical components, will be conducted by university faculty members as well as industry experts.

Participation and Application

International students interested in participating in the upcoming training sessions are required to apply through the designated application form, accessible via the provided link.

Additionally, local firms operating in Balıkesir and Çanakkale provinces that wish to collaborate with students who have completed the program and earned the title of "Trade Ambassadors of South Marmara" are invited to apply through the firm application form available at the provided link.