A cooperation protocol has been between Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) and Turkish Cypriot Artist Turgay Hilmi to carry out academic, cultural and artistic activities. EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Aykut Hocanın and Artist Turgay Hilmi signed the said agreement at a ceremony held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, 24 August, 2021, at the EMU Rector’s Office Meeting Hall. EMU Board of Trustees  President Dr. Erdal Özcenk and EMU Vice Rector for Social and Cultural Affairs Prof. Dr. Deniz Iscioglu were also present at the said event. The aforementioned cooperation protocol aims to ensure the development and organisation of the academic, cultural and artistic cooperation between the University and the artist.

In his speech, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Aykut Hocanın stated that he is extremely pleased with the cooperation protocol signed. Stating that as a state university EMU is trying to do its part in education, research and community service,  Prof. Dr. Hocanın underlined that notable work is being carried out for the planning of cultural and artistic activities in the context of community involvement. Stating that they take care to work at the highest level, Prof. Dr. Hocanın said that with the protocol signed, a general understanding has been achieved. Wishing the protocol to be beneficial, Prof. Dr. Hocanın underlined that, as EMU, they are ready to contribute so that artists can reflect their talents and meet with the society.

EMU Board of Trustees President Dr. Erdal Özcenk stated that Turgay Hilmi is a unique artist and that they closely follow Turgay Hilmi's artistic activities in Germany with pride. Dr. Özcenk wished the said cooperation protocol to be beneficial for both parties.

Speaking during the ceremony, Turgay Hilmi said, “I am honored to feel as part of the EMU family so quickly. I have been living in Germany for 42 years and I am very happy to be able to transfer the experience I gained there both to university students and the society through the support of EMU.”