Dreaming of Becoming a District Governor and the Career Journey
Bülent Karacan stated that he had dreamed of becoming a district governor since childhood. He emphasized that meeting a district governor during his youth played a crucial role in shaping his career goals. He successfully passed the Ministry of Interior’s District Governor Candidate Entrance Exam (İBKAS) and the interview process, which marked the beginning of his career.
After passing the exam, he spent nine months in the United Kingdom for language training. Upon returning to Türkiye, he started working as a district governor’s deputy, with his first assignment being in Kastamonu.
Essential Qualifications for Becoming a District Governor
Karacan highlighted the key competencies required for aspiring district governors:
✔ Leadership and management skills
✔ Strong oratory skills and effective self-expression
✔ Confidence and decision-making ability
✔ Knowledge of administrative law and legal regulations
✔ Proficiency in foreign languages, particularly English
He stressed that language training and international experience are crucial in a district governor's career, adding that studying abroad significantly contributed to his professional development.
The Future of the District Governor Profession and Advice for Students
Karacan asserted that the profession of district governors would continue as long as the state exists but acknowledged that the scope and responsibilities of the role might evolve over time. He predicted that digitalization and technological advancements would become more integrated into public administration in the future.
For students preparing for the district governor exams, he offered the following advice:
✔ Prioritize administrative law and gain a strong understanding of legal regulations.
✔ Develop oratory and diction skills, and practice public speaking.
✔ Be confident and adopt a solution-oriented approach to challenges.
✔ Learn foreign languages, focusing on English and a second language.
Finally, he emphasized the importance of education for women, stating that they must pursue their studies and achieve financial independence.
At the end of the event, Karacan was presented with a plaque of appreciation. With a high turnout and strong interest, the event provided valuable insights for those considering a career in public administration.
Written by Esma Özge Nohut, 1st-year student in the Department of Political Science and International Relations (Turkish), Istanbul Gelisim University.
