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Excerpts from This Week… As part of our collaboration with SAYEG, we are delighted to host 7 tourism and 7 mechanics students from LICEUL AUTO “TRAIAN VUIA” in Târgu Jiu, Romania, here in Istanbul. Within the scope of the Erasmus+ “Short-term Learning Mobility of VET Learners” program, this project, running from February 24 to March 7, 2025, aims to provide students with hands-on professional experience through workplace placements. Our tourism students are undertaking internships in the hospitality and food & beverage sectors ( @asskcafe   @laviecafeistanbul   @kilyahotel  ), while our mechanics students are gaining practical experience in the automotive industry. During the weekends, students have the opportunity to explore Istanbul’s rich historical and cultural heritage, creating lasting memories.

In cooperation with Sarıyer Public Education Center, we hosted 25 participants from Slovenia within the scope of Erasmus adult education accreditation. Our participants visited the Black Sea Foundation, Sarıyer Public Education Center and Eastern Focus Schools and worked on foil embossing.

We are delighted to share the success of our recent training session for the implementers of the dialogic gatherings methodology, held in Türkiye on October 31th. This event marked a significant milestone in our ongoing A-CLASE project, which aims to foster societal synergy through the power of classical literature and arts. Training Highlights The training session brought together 10 dedicated senior volunteers who embarked on their journey as ambassadors of the A-CLASE project. These individuals will play a pivotal role in spreading the principles and practices of dialogic gatherings within their communities. The day’s program was carefully curated to ensure a rich and engaging experience for all participants. Key highlights included: Demo Gatherings: Participants engaged in hands-on demo gatherings, exploring how dialogic methods can create meaningful conversations and shared understanding. Discussions focused on potential materials to use during these gatherings and strategies for fostering collaboration and inclusivity. Interactive Discussions: Attendees shared ideas and exchanged insights, laying the groundwork for innovative approaches to implementing the methodology. Emphasis was placed on empowering collaboration and enriching the dialogic experience. Warm Hospitality: The SAYEG-Der project team organized the event with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all. A delightful coffee break with quality refreshments and appetizers set the tone for productive networking and camaraderie. Cultural Connection: Following the training and demo gatherings, participants enjoyed a scenic Bosphorus tour accompanied by a delicious lunch hosted by SAYEG-Der. This cultural experience further strengthened bonds among the group and provided an opportunity to reflect on the day’s learnings in a relaxed setting. Looking Ahead The training session was not just an event but a step forward in our collective mission to create positive social change through the arts and dialogue. With these newly trained ambassadors, we are confident that the A-CLASE project will continue to inspire and empower communities in Türkiye and beyond. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, and the SAYEG-Der team for their contributions to making this training session a resounding success. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive and connected future. Stay tuned for more updates on the A-CLASE project and our upcoming activities. Let’s continue to build bridges through dialogue, literature, and arts!

From 13 to 17 May 2024, our Erasmus+ project IDEALS (Intercultural Democratic Education and Soft Skills) carried out its first Learning, Teaching, Training Activity (LTTA) in the Netherlands. This event aimed to develop democratic citizenship through various cooperation activities, in line with the fourth Work Package (WP4) of the IDEALS project. The event facilitated cooperation between educational institutions in Europe, shared best practices and promoted democratic citizenship among young people. The main objectives of the LTTA were multi-faceted. Firstly, it aimed to provide students with knowledge of democratic values such as human rights, equality and social justice and to encourage their active participation in democratic processes at local, national and European levels. Secondly, it was designed to promote intercultural understanding and respect for diversity in students. Thirdly, it was a fundamental goal to provide students with a sense of common values and common goals and to enable them to cooperate across cultural and national boundaries. Alongside these objectives, LTTA aimed to develop students’ communication, collaboration and leadership skills and offered opportunities to practice these skills in a multicultural and multilingual environment. Empowering young people to become active and engaged citizens committed to working for positive social change in their communities and beyond was also an important goal. Finally, it aimed to promote the values of the Erasmus+ programme and to raise awareness among participants and stakeholders about the intercultural learning and collaboration opportunities offered by the programme. LTTA kicked off with a visit to the European Commission and European Parliament Visit Centre in Brussels on 13 May 2024. This visit provided students with valuable insight into the functioning of the European Union and the promotion of democratic values and citizenship among its member states. It also provided an in-depth understanding of European democracy by exploring the city of Brussels. The second day began with a Model EU workshop led by European Commission speaker Fons Janssens. This interactive session gave students a practical understanding of European governance by simulating the EU’s decision-making process. In the afternoon, students participated in group work and a collaborative action game exploring the city of Maastricht. This activity increased their teamwork skills and deepened their appreciation of European history and cooperation. On the third day, a workshop was held by Global Exploration, focusing on global legislative processes based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This session provided students with a global perspective on legislative practices and the importance of sustainability. In the afternoon, students participated in sports activities, encouraging teamwork and intercultural interaction in an informal setting. The fourth day was dedicated to group work where students from Turkey, the Netherlands, Romania, Italy and Bulgaria collaborated to solve challenges and come up with new projects and creative solutions. The day emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation, with students working together to address real-world problems. LTTA concluded on the fifth day with students presenting their projects and showcasing the results of their collaborative efforts. The day concluded with a farewell session reflecting on the experiences of the week and the bonds that were formed. LTTA enabled students to learn about democratic processes and engage directly with European institutions and simulations. Activities developed intercultural competence and respect for diversity, while collaborative projects encouraged innovation and problem solving across cultural and national boundaries. Students also developed important skills such as communication, collaboration and leadership, and were empowered to become active citizens committed to working for social change. Reflecting on this successful event, we are excited about the future stages of the IDEALS project. The experiences and knowledge gained from this LTTA will contribute significantly to the continued success of our initiatives and help us create more inclusive and participatory educational environments across Europe. We thank all participants and partners for their dedication and contributions and look forward to continuing our collaboration to promote democratic citizenship and intercultural understanding.

The world is at a turning point. Climate change, energy crises, and environmental challenges call for urgent action, and the role of youth has never been more critical. With the ambition to make a difference, the "YOUTH Leading Green Energy Transition (YLGET)"  project is set to empower young people with the knowledge and skills needed to lead the shift towards sustainable energy solutions. 🌱 Project Goal The primary goal of the "Youth Leading Green Energy Transition" (YLGET) project  is to empower youth through energy education, personal development, and entrepreneurship , fostering a generation of informed, responsible, and proactive individuals. ⚡ Project Objectives To be achieved within 15 months , the timeline of the project: O1:  Equip 90 youths aged 14-18  from Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey with comprehensive knowledge about sustainable energy, including the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in the field. O2:  Develop personal and entrepreneurial skills  among youth to foster innovation and proactive behavior towards energy sustainability. O3:  Enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange  among partner organizations and local communities. O4:  Raise professional capacities  of 12 youth workers  from partner organizations in designing, implementing, and evaluating energy education and youth engagement programs. 🌿 Why Youth Matter in the Green Transition Young people are the changemakers of today and tomorrow. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a strong will to create a better world. However, to turn their passion into action, they need education, resources, and opportunities . YLGTE provides exactly that by: Educating youth on renewable energy sources  and sustainable practices. Encouraging active participation  in environmental decision-making. Equipping young leaders with green skills  for future careers. Fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange. 🤝 The Power of Collaboration The complexity of climate change and energy sustainability  requires a comprehensive approach that combines various fields of expertise. No single country or organization can address these challenges alone. The collaboration between Asociația Edulifelong, SAYEG-DER, and IYCC  ensures a well-rounded approach, leveraging their combined strengths to achieve the project objectives. 💚 How We Will Make a Difference Through interactive workshops, field visits, expert-led discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will explore solar energy, wind power, energy efficiency, and sustainable innovations . The project will also focus on advocacy and policy engagement , ensuring that young voices are heard in shaping the future of energy policies. Additionally, YLGTE will create a digital resource hub  where participants can access training materials, share insights, and build a strong network of eco-conscious youth leaders. 🚀 Join the Movement! The transition to green energy is not just about technology—it’s about people. It’s about young minds coming together to inspire, innovate, and lead . If you are passionate about sustainability and want to be part of a project that drives real impact, YLGTE is for you! Stay tuned for updates, events, and opportunities to get involved! 📢 Visit our website: erasmusproject.wixsite.com/ylget #YLGTE #GreenEnergyTransition #YouthForSustainability #ErasmusPlus #FutureLeaders

On February 17, 2024, Sayeg Derneği had the privilege of participating in the 3rd Women in STEM Conference held at Enka Schools, Istanbul, where we had the opportunity to engage with 280 students and 60 teachers. The theme of this year’s conference was Women in STEM, a powerful and inspiring platform dedicated to empowering the next generation of female leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As part of this impactful event, we had the honor of presenting our IDEALS project, which focuses on promoting democratic education, intercultural learning, and the development of essential life skills. Our goal was to create a space for students to discuss the importance of these topics in their personal and academic growth. To make the discussion more interactive, we conducted a workshop with 30 students, allowing them to share their perspectives, thoughts, and ideas on what democratic education, intercultural understanding, and life skills mean to them. The students’ insights were invaluable, and their contributions will guide the future direction of the IDEALS project. The conference, organized with the collaboration of various NGOs and universities, was an incredible gathering of passionate individuals and organizations committed to advancing the role of women in STEM. Sayeg Derneği was proud to be one of the participating NGOs, contributing to the conference’s mission of fostering innovation, collaboration, and empowerment for the young minds shaping the future. The event was filled with inspiring discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a unique platform for students and teachers alike to explore new ideas, share knowledge, and build meaningful connections. Beyond the formal sessions, the conference also highlighted the importance of sustainability and organic living, as we joined in the effort to promote environmentally conscious choices. Overall, the Women in STEM Conference at Enka Schools was an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. We were able to inspire students, exchange ideas, and introduce them to new opportunities for growth. At Sayeg Derneği, we firmly believe in the power of education and the role it plays in shaping a better future. We are excited to continue working on projects like IDEALS and BUILDENT that create positive, lasting change in the lives of young people. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Enka Schools, all the participating NGOs, universities, and, most importantly, the students and teachers who made this event a success. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for all. #WomenInSTEM #SayegDerneği #IDEALSProject #EmpoweringYouth #DemocraticEducation #InterculturalLearning #LifeSkills #Sustainability #STEMEducation #EnkaSchools #NGOsForChange #FutureLeaders

Dissemination Meeting with Sarıyer Guidance and Research Center On June 12, 2024, we successfully organized a dissemination meeting with our stakeholder, Sarıyer Guidance and Research Center. The meeting saw an impressive turnout with 87 participants, including teachers, managers, and school counselors. Meltem Ceylan, a member of the project management board, presented the A-CLASE project. The aim was to introduce the project to key educational figures who can amplify its impact and bridge the connection between us and our target groups. During the meeting, we detailed our project activities and objectives. We announced our decision to select 10 ambassadors and 50 unemployed adult learners. This initiative is part of our collaborative effort with partners across Slovenia and Turkey, focusing on transformative activities, leadership workshops, and dialogic gatherings. Together, we aim to create a vibrant community where learning transcends generational boundaries and empowers adult learners. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make strides in transforming lives through education and collaboration.

From May 13 to May 17, 2024, our Erasmus+ project named IDEALS (Intercultural Democratic Education and Soft Skills) held its first Learning, Teaching, Training Activity (LTTA) in the Netherlands. This activity, aligned with the fourth Work Package (WP4) of the IDEALS project, aimed to develop democratic citizenship through a variety of cooperative activities. The event facilitated cooperation, shared best practices among European educational institutions, and promoted democratic citizenship among young people. The primary objectives of the LTTA were multifaceted. Firstly, it aimed to increase students' understanding of democratic values, including human rights, equality, and social justice, and to encourage their active participation in democratic processes at local, national, and European levels. Secondly, the activities were designed to develop students' intercultural competence and understanding, promoting respect for diversity and multiculturalism . Thirdly, fostering a sense of shared values and common goals among students was a key objective, encouraging them to work collaboratively across cultural and national boundaries . In addition to these goals, the LTTA sought to enhance students' communication, collaboration, and leadership skills by providing them with opportunities to practice these skills in a multicultural and multilingual environment . Empowering young people to become active and engaged citizens, committed to working towards positive social change in their communities and beyond, was another crucial aim . Finally, the LTTA aimed to promote the values of the Erasmus+ programme, raising awareness among participants and stakeholders about the opportunities for intercultural learning and cooperation that the programme provides . The LTTA began with a visit to the European Commission and the European Parliamentarium in Brussels on May 13, 2024. This visit provided students with valuable insights into the functioning of the European Union and its role in promoting democratic values and citizenship across member states 🇪🇺. The visit also included exploring the city of Brussels, offering a deeper understanding of European democracy . The second day featured a Model EU workshop led by European Commission speaker Fons Janssens. This interactive session allowed students to engage in a simulation of the EU's decision-making process, fostering a practical understanding of European governance . In the afternoon, students participated in group work and a cooperative action-bound game to explore Maastricht, the city where the Euro was born. This activity not only enhanced their teamwork skills but also deepened their appreciation of European history and cooperation 🇪🇺. On the third day, a workshop conducted by Global Exploration focused on global legislative processes based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . This session provided students with a global perspective on legislative practices and the importance of sustainability. In the afternoon, students participated in sports activities, promoting teamwork and intercultural interaction in an informal setting . The fourth day was dedicated to group work, where students from Turkey, the Netherlands, Romania, Italy, and Bulgaria collaborated to solve challenges and produce new projects and creative solutions . This day emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation, as students worked together to address real-world issues. The LTTA concluded on the fifth day with students presenting their projects, showcasing the outcomes of their collaborative efforts . The day ended with a farewell session, reflecting on the week's experiences and the bonds formed . The LTTA was marked by several significant outcomes. It increased students' understanding of democratic processes through direct engagement with European institutions and simulations. The activities fostered intercultural competence and respect for diversity, while collaborative projects encouraged innovation and problem-solving across cultural and national boundaries . Students also developed crucial skills such as communication, collaboration, and leadership, and were empowered to become active citizens committed to social change . As we reflect on this successful event, we are excited about the future phases of the IDEALS project. The experiences and insights gained from this LTTA will significantly contribute to the ongoing success of our initiatives, helping to create more inclusive and participatory educational environments across Europe. We extend our gratitude to all participants and partners for their dedication and contributions, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative journey towards fostering democratic citizenship and intercultural understanding.

The "Journey to the Future with New Generation Education" panel of the "Geleceğe Yolculuk" project, supported by ISTKA, was hosted by Enka Schools on January 4, 2024, at 11:00 am at Enka Auditorium with the participation of more than 400 attendees on an international scale. The participants of the event, which was shaped around the theme of "New Generation Education," consisted of protocol members, academicians, experts, educators, parents, administrators, and NGO employees. The event started with the speech of Sarıyer District Director of National Education, Hüseyin ÖZCANLAR, and continued with the Journey to the Future Project Presentation by Project Coordinator Sibel SAYGIN. The opening speech of the Journey to the Future with New Generation Education Panel was delivered by Prof. Dr. Seyfi Kenan, Dean of Marmara University Faculty of Education, and the panel was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşin Kaplan Sayı, Faculty Member of Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Educational Sciences. During the panel discussion session, Prof. Dr. Hakan Akçay from Boğaziçi University Faculty of Education, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aşkın Kocabaş from Koç University Faculty of Science, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuncer Can from Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Education, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nihal Yurtseven from Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Educational Sciences discussed important issues such as the roles of teachers, the profile of 21st century students, the evolving role of parenting in education, teacher professionalism, raising science-loving students, designer teacher profiles, and advice for the alpha generation. Within the framework of the discourse of education for the new generation, the international dimension of the event, which provided a pleasant panel concert to the participants, and ISTKA and its support for education were disseminated to eight different countries, and the Journey to the Future Project was presented as a good example. The second half of the event continued with international project presentations and the sharing of best practices that best address the changing educational methods and techniques of the new generation of educators. Following the presentations, the event was organized in the foyer area, where the participants discussed different funding sources and cooperation. In this way, synergy on new practices and sharing in education contributed to the formation of synergy.

We are happy to announce the successful kick-off meeting for our A-CLASE project, held online on February 7th, 2024. This milestone event brought together representatives from Razvojno izobraževalni center Novo mesto (Slovenia) and Saygın Eğitimciler ve Girişimciler Derneği (Turkey) to officially launch our collaborative initiative. Meeting Highlights: Introductions: Partners introduced themselves and outlined their roles and expectations. Project Overview: An in-depth presentation covered project goals, timelines, and activities, such as training senior volunteers and hosting dialogic gatherings. Financial Management: Key guidelines on budget management and reporting were shared. Roles and Responsibilities: Each partner’s tasks were clearly defined, focusing on communication, quality assurance, and risk management. This meeting set a robust foundation for our project, emphasizing our commitment to promoting inclusion, lifelong learning, and employability through collaborative efforts. Stay tuned for more updates as we advance this exciting journey together!

🎓🤔 Are you a math teacher, educator, tutor or more generally someone who works to improve the math skills of children and young people? 🤩 Then this MOOC is for you! M@thgan MOOC offers a transformative journey into innovative math education by providing solutions to common challenges in the classroom. 📺 Mathgan MOOC starts on November 11th at 12:00 pm PT. Don't miss this opportunity to improve your teaching and make math exciting for your students! Register now 👉https://mathgan.eu/mooc #MatematikEğitim #MatematikÖğretimi #MOOC #ERASMUSplus

SAYEG Association is one of the project partner of the BUILDENT project which is funded under Erasmus KA220 Cooperation project. BUILDENT seeks to develop key competences, by establishing good practices for better support of educational staff in their tasks and improving their education, for updating assessment and validation methods and tools, and for introducing new and innovative forms of teaching and learning needed for personal fulfilment, employability, socio-educational and personal development, as well as participation in civic and social life. As a tool, it seeks to improve both digital and entrepreneurial competences motivating more young people and their teachers. Financial literacy is one of the essential skills defined by EntreComp which constitutes the building blocks of entrepreneurship. Education has been indicated as a solution in building tomorrow’s entrepreneurships skills with EntreComp implemented as the educational guideline. OECD PISA surveys measuring 15-year-olds’ ability to use their reading, mathematics, science, knowledge & skills to meet real-life challenges highlight that students that are aware of financial concepts are taught by parents not schools.