Van Centennial University

Van Centennial University Overview

Centennial University, founded on July 20, 1982, is a prestigious educational institution located in Turkey's eastern region. The initiative to establish a university in Van began earlier, with efforts to transform a middle school into a high school as a starting point. The visionary leader, Atatürk, emphasized the importance of creating a modern city of culture, including a primary school and ultimately a university along the picturesque shores of Lake Van. In 1938, plans for the East University near Lake Van were discussed, and a committee was formed in 1951 to determine its location and establish auxiliary departments in Elazığ, Erzurum, and Diyarbakır. However, it wasn't until the introduction of The Higher Education Law that Centennial University became officially established on July 20, 1982. The university owes its existence to the tireless efforts of the "Association of Founding and Sustaining of University and Graduate School in Van," which advocated for a separate university in Van starting from 1968.

The university's growth is evident in its journey from its establishment to its current form. With 17 faculties, 5 institutes, 4 vocational schools, 9 vocational training schools, 1 conservatory, and 43 research and application centers, the university has evolved into a comprehensive institution. It is located on the shores of Lake Van, approximately 15 km from the city center, and operates through the main Zeve Campus as well as branches in Gevaş, Özalp, and Erciş.

In recognition of its historical significance and the ongoing commitment to education, the university's name was officially changed to Van Yüzüncü Yıl University through a law passed on June 18, 2017. This change, which was published in the Official Gazette on July 1, 2017, reflects the university's dedication to its mission of providing high-quality education and contributing to the region's cultural and academic advancement.