IMPACT AREAS

EQUALITY & EQUITY IN EDUCATION

THE CHALLENGE

In Türkiye, access to quality education is still shaped by where a child is born, their family’s income, and, too often, their gender. Secondary-school enrollment for girls can be as low as 16 % in provinces like Muş, compared to over 82 % in Bilecik—and over 90 % in more developed provinces such as İzmir or Muğla—reflecting deep regional inequalities. Children from the poorest households spend 21 times less on education than those from the wealthiest families, creating a cycle of disadvantage. Even for those in school, disparities in resources and teaching quality are stark—differences across schools account for 62 % of variations in math performance, far above the OECD average of 37 %. A significant portion of students are also underperforming in key areas: 38.6 % in mathematics, 29.3 % in reading, and 24.7 % in science. These figures highlight the urgent need to strengthen foundational skills, address child poverty, and ensure equal opportunities for all students to learn and thrive.

WHAT WE DO

PARTNERS

READY TO TAKE ACTION?

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  • Darüşşafaka - Become a Darüşşafaka Guardian

    Give orphaned children in Türkiye the gift of education and a supportive home. Become a Guardian to cover schooling, housing, and life-changing opportunities for bright young minds.

    Equality & Equity in Education
    $400,338 USD / $500,000 USD
  • CYDD - Empower Girls Through Education

    Give girls in Türkiye the tools to succeed through high school and beyond. Your support provides scholarships, school supplies, and life-changing opportunities.

    Equality & Equity in Education
    $136,073 USD / $250,000 USD
  • PAYDA - Educate and Empower Girls in Türkiye

    Support underprivileged girls in Türkiye to stay in school and thrive. Your donation helps fund education and build bridges between communities.

    Equality & Equity in Education
    $49,085 USD / $50,000 USD
  • Empower Children in Villages with Hands-on Education in Farming and Arts - Gunesane

    One Day When I Grow Up empowers children in Northern Aegean villages with hands-on education in farming, arts, and local heritage skills. By combining practical learning, mentorship, and community engagement, the program builds confidence, problem-solving abilities, and a vision for a future rooted in their villages.

    Equality & Equity in Education
    $870 USD / $25,000 USD
  • Help Kids Bounce Back Through Basketball - BIDEV

    Basketball is more than a game—it’s a path to confidence, teamwork, and resilience. After the February 6 earthquakes, many schools in Turkey’s affected regions struggle with damaged facilities and limited resources. BIDEV is closing this gap by renovating courts, providing full basketball training kits, and supporting students and teachers with professional guidance—both online and on-site. We give special attention to girls’ teams, ensuring equal opportunities for all children.

    Equality & Equity in Education
    $20,052 USD / $550,000 USD

STORIES