Hand in Hand for Children

Izmir University of Economics (IUE) and Karşıyaka Municipality have established an exemplary collaboration to support the development of preschool-age children, families, and educators. The protocol, which will lay the groundwork for strengthening children cognitively and socially while informing families on raising healthy individuals, was signed by IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu and Karşıyaka Mayor Yıldız Ünsal.

The protocol, valid for two years between IUE Vocational School of Health Services and Karşıyaka Municipality, serves as a strong reflection of university-city integration. Lecturers from IUE Child Development Program will organize training sessions for children and parents at kindergartens affiliated with Karşıyaka Municipality.

APPLICATION-BASED TRAINING

Efforts will be made to improve the competencies of teachers working in kindergartens through application-based educational activities. Additionally, students from IUE Child Development Program will be able to complete their practical training or internships at the municipality's kindergartens.

The signing ceremony, hosted by IUE, was attended by Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu, Karşıyaka Mayor Yıldız Ünsal, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Efe Biresselioğlu, Director of the Vocational School of Health Services Prof. Dr. Sevinç İnan, Advisor to the Rector Asst. Prof. Dr. Burçin Önder, and various lecturers.

“WE WILL CONTINUE CONTRIBUTING TO SOCIETY”

Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu emphasized the importance of projects centered on social contribution. The Rector said, “One of our greatest responsibilities as a University is to make the knowledge we produce accessible and beneficial for all segments of society. This protocol is a concrete example of that. Through this cooperation, we will contribute to raising our children as healthy, happy, and confident individuals. We know that every step taken for children is an investment in the future of our country. As Izmir University of Economics, we will continue to contribute to society through sustainable and high-quality partnerships that are sensitive to the needs of our city.”

“A STRONG EDUCATION MODEL WILL BE CREATED”

Karşıyaka Mayor Yıldız Ünsal stated that the municipality operates eight kindergartens, adding, “Preschool education is the first and most important step of lifelong learning and personality development. Receiving professional support based on scientific knowledge; utilizing the knowledge and experience of expert academics during this process is of great importance. Children are our most precious treasure. Through this collaboration with Izmir University of Economics, we will create an educational model that supports children’s development multi-dimensionally while empowering families and educators.”