Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University (FSMVU) has received the “Institution of Excellence” Award from Global Partners in Education (GPE) in recognition of its contributions to international virtual exchange and global learning.

Global Partners in Education (GPE) is an international network of higher education institutions committed to expanding meaningful international learning experiences through virtual exchange. The network is led by East Carolina University. FSMVU has been a member of GPE since 2019 and offers the Global Understanding course as an elective within the Civil Aviation Cabin Services Program. Through the course, FSMVU students engage virtually with peers from universities in different countries, developing intercultural awareness and gaining experience in international collaboration.

In addition to the Global Understanding course, FSMVU participates in WorldWise, a student-focused virtual exchange initiative that brings together students and academic staff from different countries. In 2026, FSMVU hosted a WorldWise event with participation from universities representing 14 countries, providing students with further opportunities for intercultural dialogue and international engagement. FSMVU’s GPE activities are coordinated by Instructor Zeynep Bilgehan Can, who has taught the Global Understanding course since its introduction, together with Instructor Fatma Beyza Soyyigit, who later joined the teaching team. This year, both instructors were also nominated for the Rosina C. Chia Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The award reflects FSMVU’s continued commitment to expanding international learning opportunities and strengthening meaningful connections among students and educators across borders through virtual exchange.