By Gozde Arasl | Program Services Manager
As the new school year begins, thousands of children across Turkey face significant barriers to accessing quality education. In rural and earthquake-affected regions, students often lack basic stationery and modern learning tools—essentials that many take for granted. This disparity undermines the promise of UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, which urges nations to "ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all."
One of the key targets of this goal is to guarantee free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education for every child by 2030. Yet, the reality in Turkey paints a troubling picture. According to TurkStat’s Family in Statistics report, 21.2% of households live in poverty, with the rate climbing to 26.9% among extended families. Alarmingly, one in three families resides in substandard housing, plagued by leaking roofs, damp walls, and broken windows.
The 2024 data reveals even deeper challenges: 40% of children are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. Many families struggle to provide basic nutrition, with one in ten unable to afford new clothes or regular fruits and vegetables. OECD figures show that 20% of 15-year-olds skip at least one meal a week, meaning thousands of students attend school hungry.
Education is a right, not a privilege. Thanks to the generous donors who have already contributed, many children have received the support they need. But the journey is far from over. We invite you to join us in making a lasting impact—your donation can help ensure every child has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive.
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