Efkan Ala discusses Turkey's geopolitical role and academic freedom

Efkan Ala, Deputy Chairman of the AK Party, addressed students and academics at the opening ceremony of the 2026-2027 academic year at Bursa Uludağ University. During his lecture titled “Terror-Free Turkey,” Ala emphasized Turkey's geopolitical role in the Middle East.

Ala stated that if a table is being set in the Middle East and a nation lacks a seat, it risks becoming part of the menu. He asserted that Turkey must either secure its place at existing tables or take the initiative to build new ones.

Regarding the information age, Ala noted that 95% of modern products are based on knowledge, while only 5% stem from raw materials and labor. He stressed that freedom of thought is essential for knowledge production, suggesting that universities should be spaces where thought is free from fear.

Furthermore, Ala discussed the issue of brain drain, noting that countries that receive brain drain produce prosperity, while those that lose it face difficulties. He expressed a commitment to making Turkey a country that attracts talent rather than losing it.