The place of scientific research centres in higher education policies: TRB2 Region

The present study examines the position of scientific research centres within the higher education policies of universities located in the TRB2 Region (Van, Muş, Bitlis, and Hakkâri provinces). The research proffers a comparative analysis of the number of research centres, their areas of focus, budgets, project outputs, and scientific research activities across regional universities. The study utilises the 2024 data set to analyse institutional research performance and to discuss the strategic role of research centres in shaping academic policy. The findings indicate that Van Yüzüncü Yıl University is distinguished by its substantial project volume and budget; Bitlis Eren University is notable for its specialisation and commercialisation; Muş Alparslan University demonstrates strength in academic publications; while Hakkâri University exhibits limited performance due to infrastructural constraints. The study emphasises the necessity of the structuring of research centres in alignment with institutional strategic visions and presents policy recommendations with the aim of enhancing regional development.