Education diplomacy as a public diplomacy tool in Turkey: The case of Istanbul province

Educational diplomacy has emerged as an important component of public diplomacy, playing a significant role in enhancing a nation's global influence. Through educational exchange programs, states promote their education systems, cultural richness, and scientific achievements on the international stage, creating an environment of mutual learning and understanding with other nations. This study examines how educational diplomacy contributes to the development of a positive and lasting image for a state, focusing on the perceptions of international students coming to Turkey for education, with Istanbul as a case study. The tendencies of states to attract international students or integrate them into exchange programs demonstrate the importance of educational diplomacy as a tool of public diplomacy. Educational exchange programs, which are a significant aspect of educational diplomacy, provide international students with the opportunity to experience the host country directly, leading to an unbiased perception. These programs are considered an important tool for improving intergovernmental relations and enhancing mutual understanding. International students participating in these programs serve as cultural and academic ambassadors, promoting the language, culture, and intellectual achievements of the host country to the world. Turkey is also actively engaging in educational diplomacy by focusing on increasing the number of international students receiving education within its schools, universities and other institutions. Turkey aims to promote its language, culture, and academic offerings through various scholarship and exchange programs, thereby enhancing its global image. At this point, the study scientifically analyzes the role of education in measuring Turkey's soft power through a survey conducted as part of the research.