Bringing over 80 years of pharmaceutical experience, Santa Farma Pharma has partnered with Kocaeli University to establish an industry-oriented academic curriculum. Approved by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), the Pharmaceutical Production Technology Associate Degree Program was officially founded at Kocaeli Vocational School.
The groundwork for the program was laid during a workshop on November 25, 2025, involving representatives from Kocaeli Vocational School, GEBKİM MTAL, and Santa Farma’s manufacturing, R&D, and quality directorates. The curriculum framework was submitted to YÖK on December 25, 2025, and received official approval on May 14, 2026. Departing from standard chemical technology education, the curriculum focuses on GMP/GLP requirements, hygiene, validation processes, and cleanroom disciplines, while offering double major (ÇAP) integration options with Chemical Technology.
On-the-Job Education Model (İME) and Applied Field Training
Under the program's structure, second-year students will spend 2 days a week on theoretical coursework and 3 days completing practical training under mentorship inside contracted manufacturing plants. Santa Farma's production facility in GEBKİM OSB, holding EU/EAEU/ANVISA-GMP certifications, will serve as the primary training site. Additionally, Santa Farma professionals will contribute as "Visiting Lecturers," and "Train the Trainer" sessions will be organized for academic staff.
Executive Statements
Commenting on the launch and strategic alignment of the academic program:
Sema Yetkiner (Human Resources Director, Santa Farma Pharma):
"Powered by our history of over 80 years, we advance with the vision of becoming a reference company that meets local market needs with global standards. The pharmaceutical sector requires a highly specific workforce culture due to its zero-error nature and rigorous regulatory scrutiny by global health authorities. This program created with Kocaeli University will bring qualified, certified, and practical human capital to the Turkish pharmaceutical industry. Operating under a 'Zero Error' principle, these new-generation professionals will strategically contribute to localization in medicine, operational excellence, and value-added exports."
Vedat Özbek (Plant Director, Santa Farma Pharma):
"Our high-tech manufacturing plant in GEBKİM OSB, certified with EU/EAEU/ANVISA-GMP standards, will be the main practical venue for this program. Pharmaceutical manufacturing requires operational discipline following strict hygiene rules, cleanroom standards, and sensitive regulations. Thanks to the On-the-Job Vocational Education (İME) model, students will reinforce theoretical knowledge in real production environments before graduation, enabling them to adapt immediately without long orientation periods."
