Institutionalization of Science Communication in Universities of Turkiye: A Qualitative Analysis of Central Communication Units

Abstract

In contemporary policy documents and academic literature, the significance of institutional actors, particularly universities, in the communication and interaction processes between science and society is increasingly emphasized. This study aims to explore the science communication activities carried out by central communication units of universities in Türkiye, the distribution of these activities among sub-units within universities, the priorities and motivations for such activities, and the problems encountered in the institutionalization of science communication. Using a qualitative research method, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with senior officials from 20 public and foundation universities in Türkiye, and a thematic analysis approach was utilized to analyze the coded data. The results indicate that while there are noteworthy differences between public and foundation universities, central communication units prioritize routine and one-way science communication activities categorized as PR and Marketing, while Public Engagement and Public Affairs activities involving dialogue are carried out to a more limited extent. The primary motivation behind universities’ science communication is meeting specific institutional strategic goals rather than creating public benefit. Furthermore, institutionalizing science communication in universities has been hindered by personnel and budget constraints in communication offices, the lack of institutional autonomy, and undefined duties and authorities of these units under the legal regulations of the higher education system.