Özyeğin University carries out studies in the fields of sustainable rural development and agriculture and food systems in the components of education, academic publication, creating student experiences, and preparing local development plans. ÖzU takes the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a reference in these studies.

Özyeğin University categorizes its efforts in agriculture, critical food studies, local and rural development, and ecology under the following headings: research, program development, advocacy, capacity development, and outreach awareness.

Certificate Programs for Local and Rural Development Expertise: The “Local and Rural Development Expertise Training Certificate Program” has been consistently offered since 2014, and its 10th iteration is taking place this year, benefiting over 500 individuals thus far. This certificate program aims to provide participants with a holistic understanding of the fundamental issues, applications, and thematic areas in sustainable local and rural development. It has become a focal point for public sector employees, local government officials, and civil society organization staff. Distinguished by its uniqueness, our certificate program includes contributions from academics of various universities, NGO leaders, and representatives of producer organizations, in addition to Özyeğin University. The program’s participants and instructors reinforce our university’s claim to be a hub for sustainable development.

Capacity Development Training for Cooperatives: Capacity-enhancing training and mentorship support is provided to cooperatives engaged in agriculture and food-related activities. Within this scope, support has been extended to cooperatives and associations operating in Kilis, Bitlis, Rize, and Iğdır.

District Investment Plans for Sustainable Development: In collaboration with the Southeast Anatolia Project Regional Development Administration (GAP), investment plans have been prepared for three settlements, including Ömerli in Mardin, Besni in Adıyaman, and the Ravanda Basin in Kilis. These district investment plans, centered on holistic and community-based local development, serve as exemplary instances of cross-sector collaboration.

Integration of Rural and Urban Economies Project (KIRKEP) Research Report: In cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Technology’s General Directorate of Development Agencies, a research report titled “Integration of Rural and Urban Economies Project (KIRKEP)” has been prepared. This research investigates the integration of rural and urban economies in Turkey, examining integration at the district level through various lenses such as production, consumption, demographics, and social manifestations. The study has resulted in policy recommendations in these areas. Additionally, the research project has contributed to the development of a methodology and variable set specifically designed to measure rural-urban integration. It has sparked discussions among academia, civil society, and policymakers regarding spatial-level and integration-focused approaches to local and rural development. Book on Local and Rural Development from the Perspective of Sustainable Living: The book, “Local and Rural Development from the Perspective of Sustainable Living,” comprises articles by academicians who serve as trainers in local and rural development certificate programs. It has been published by Özyeğin University Publications and offers a rich resource that combines theoretical perspectives with practical insights. The book features 24 articles and interviews categorized under four main themes. It effectively addresses a significant gap in Turkish literature concerning local and rural development.

Legacy and Future of Turkish Agriculture Debates: Inter- generational Seminar Series: This series aims to bring together young researchers focused on agriculture and food- related topics with eminent figures in Turkish agriculture and food literature. The platform allows them to engage in discussions on contemporary research topics. As of October 2023, the 14th meeting of the “Legacy and Future of Turkish Agriculture Debates” is a product of collaboration between Özyeğin University (LoafLab) and the Globe Local Studies Scientific Research Cooperative.