Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Özdeşer: Pioneering Sustainable Energy Policies and Inspiring Academic Excellence

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Özdeşer, Chairperson of the Department of Economics at Near East University, has built a distinguished academic career centered on economics and sustainable energy policies. Throughout his journey, he has consistently emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, and a strong theoretical foundation—values he believes are essential for academic success. Prof. Dr. Özdeşer encourages his students to move beyond rote memorization, focusing instead on practical, application-based learning. His commitment to research and education has earned him the Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal, recognizing his significant contributions to both the academic community and the field of sustainable energy.His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical, application-based learning, and he has always encouraged his students to think critically and engage with real-world issues. With a career that spans over three decades, Prof. Dr. Özdeşer continues to be a driving force in his field, impacting both the academic community and society at large through his research and insights on sustainable energy.

In his own words, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Özdeşer describes his academic journey as one shaped by a strong commitment to hard work and discipline. He always dreamed of becoming a university professor, and his passion for the academic world was nurtured from an early age. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the importance of a solid theoretical foundation, particularly in mathematics, which played a crucial role in shaping his academic path. He also highlights the significant influence of his university years, where his interest in the economic and political integration processes of the European Union deeply impacted his research focus. This journey, marked by a dedication to continuous learning and growth, led him to significant contributions in the fields of economics and sustainable energy, earning him the prestigious Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal.

“Success in both academia and life is rooted in discipline and hard work. These principles have guided me throughout my journey.”

Academic Career
Since high school, becoming a university professor had always been his dream. He found immense joy in discussing and debating topics related to the scientific world with his elder brothers, who were pursuing studies in Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering.

A pivotal figure in his academic journey was his brother Hasan Özdeşer, a mechanical engineer. Hasan’s rigorous discipline and dedication to hard work greatly influenced his academic approach. Hasan played a crucial role in helping him build a strong foundation, particularly in Mathematics. Through his brother’s guidance, he came to understand that success, both in academics and in life, is rooted in hard work and discipline.

During his university years, he became deeply inspired by the economic and political integration processes within the European Union. The bold decision by EU countries to abandon their national currencies in favor of a unified monetary system fascinated him, providing profound insights and shaping the course of his academic path

Receiving the Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal
Receiving the prestigious Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal is a significant achievement, symbolizing over three decades of unwavering dedication to academia. For this accomplished scholar, the award is not only an honor but also a source of profound motivation to expand his research and publications.

His recent studies have focused on developing sustainable energy policies, emphasizing the vital role of renewable energy in advancing global economic prosperity. According to his research, countries that adopt and implement sustainable energy policies will achieve substantial economic progress and secure a prosperous future for generations to come. Conversely, nations that neglect these policies risk stagnation across all sectors.

“Sustainable energy policies are not just vital for economic progress but for securing a prosperous future for generations to come.”

Through his academic work, he aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable energy policies and their critical role in economic development. His research delves into the intricate interplay between economics and politics, as exemplified by the study titled “The Impact of Macroeconomic Factors in Exchange Rate: Hybrid Machine Learning Approach.” This groundbreaking work played a pivotal role in earning him this esteemed recognition.

Reflecting on his journey, which began in 1993 as a part-time lecturer at Near East University, this honor represents the pinnacle of his career. With over 30 years of commitment to academia, he views this achievement as a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions to science and education.

Vision for the Future
The rapid growth of the global population, projected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, is placing unprecedented pressure on the Earth’s finite resources, particularly energy. Meeting this escalating demand requires urgent and effective solutions. Addressing the global energy crisis through sustainable renewable energy policies stands as the only viable path to securing a brighter and more prosperous future.

Through his research, this scholar explores the implementation of sustainable energy policies in economically and politically advanced nations and contrasts them with approaches in developing countries. By analyzing these differences, his work aims to provide valuable insights for societies in the TRNC and beyond, offering guidance on adopting more effective renewable energy strategies to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.

“My goal is to inspire students to move beyond rote memorization, embracing critical thinking and practical applications to solve real-world challenges.”

Advice for Young Scholars
As an advocate for quality education, this academic believes that national and societal progress hinges not on mere education but on learning that prioritizes practical applications over rote memorization. In his teaching philosophy, he emphasizes that success in any field requires a strong theoretical foundation, as practical applications lose their efficacy without a deep understanding of core concepts.

To foster this approach, he designs lectures that challenge students to think critically and apply their knowledge through research tasks and interactive activities. By steering students away from rote learning, he inspires them to embrace disciplined and diligent work as essential elements of their success. His commitment to cultivating well-rounded scholars and professionals underscores his enduring dedication to education.
 
   

 
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Özdeşer’s Biography

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Özdeşer, born on May 18, 1968, in Famagusta, completed his primary and secondary education in Famagusta before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Eastern Mediterranean University in 1991. He received his Master’s degree in 1993 and Ph.D. in Economic Policy from Marmara University in 2000, with a thesis on the European Monetary Union. Prof. Dr. Özdeşer became an Associate Professor in 2008 and a Professor in 2019 at Near East University’s Economics Department.

He has contributed extensively to conferences on the TRNC economy and worked with colleagues to educate the public on the European Union during his doctoral studies. His efforts led to a publication on EU topics under the term of Prime Minister Dr. Derviş Eroğlu. He currently represents Near East University at economic meetings organized by the Prime Ministry and Presidency.

Prof. Dr. Özdeşer is a member of A-NEST, the Academic EU-Turkey Network, and has participated in the U.S. Visitor Program in 2002, engaging in workshops on global economics and politics. Since 1993, he has been a faculty member at Near East University, where he also heads the Economics Department and coordinates the European Union Relations Department.

His recent academic work focuses on energy issues in the global economy. In his personal life, Prof. Dr. Özdeşer enjoys reading, walking, and spending time with family and friends. He is married with one child.