Minister of Public Works and Transportation Erhan Arıklı met with the Cyprus Universities Union (KÜB) delegation to discuss the new public transportation system aimed at addressing the country’s long-standing transportation challenges.

Public Transportation Reform to Boost Economy, Tourism, and Education

???? Minister Arıklı emphasized that the lack of an organized public transportation system has hindered economic growth, negatively affecting both tourism and higher education. The new public transportation system, set to be implemented soon, aims to resolve these issues and enhance accessibility across the TRNC.

Universities’ Role in the New System

???? Arıklı acknowledged that universities have taken on the state's responsibility by providing private transportation for their students due to the absence of an efficient public transport system.

"Since the day they were founded, our universities have had to transport their own students. We are working to change this. The new public transportation system will be introduced soon, and universities will contribute to this project in certain amounts," Arıklı stated.

Upcoming Presentation on Public Transportation Study

???? On Thursday, a presentation will be held by Düzce Ulaşım A.Ş. Board Chairman Bekir Ilıcalı, where details of the "TRNC Public Transportation Study Integration and Transformation Project" will be shared. Minister Arıklı confirmed his attendance, ensuring that universities’ concerns and questions will be addressed.

KÜB Delegation in Attendance

The KÜB delegation at the meeting included:

• Prof. Dr. Asim Vehbi (Rector, Arkın University of Creative Arts and Design)
• Dr. Bülent Taşel (Vice President, KÜB & Secretary General, Final International University)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tolga Öz (Vice Rector, Mediterranean Karpasia University)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Behiye Çavuşoğlu (Vice Rector, World Peace University)
• Aylin Ayhan (Secretary General, Girne American University)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asil Azimli (Secretary General, Cyprus International University)
• Mithat Durak (Transportation Manager, Cyprus International University)

The new public transportation system is expected to reduce costs for universities, improve student mobility, and enhance accessibility across the country, fostering better integration of tourism and education sectors.