An Exemplary Project for Inclusive and Participatory Local Governance

Bornova Municipality, Bornova District Governorate, and Yaşar University are collaborating to launch the “Bornova Muhtarlar Akademisi” project, which will provide comprehensive training over six months to 45 neighborhood headmen (muhtars) in the district. The training will cover a wide range of topics from digital literacy to effective communication. The project aims to strengthen the influence of muhtars in local governance and enhance their communication with citizens. Mayor Ömer Eşki described the project as an important step toward a participatory and inclusive governance approach.

The “Bornova Muhtarlar Akademisi” project was prepared following the application by the Bornova Muhtars Association and is set to be implemented through a grant application submitted to the Ministry of Interior’s Directorate General for Civil Society Relations. As part of the project, 45 muhtars will receive training on various subjects such as digital literacy, effective communication, social media management, meeting and time management.

Training for Muhtars in 8 Topics and 2 Participatory Seminars

Prepared jointly by the Bornova Municipality’s Muhtarlık Affairs Directorate and the R&D Directorate, the project will offer training programs aimed at strengthening muhtars’ communication with citizens and public institutions.

The six-month training program includes the following topics:

• Digital Literacy

• Basic Computer and Internet Usage

• Effective Social Media Management and Digital Communication

• Online Meetings and Data Security

• Public Speaking, Listening, and Note-Taking Techniques

• Effective Meeting and Time Management

• Public Relations and Effective Communication

• Diction, Oratory, and Persuasion Skills

Additionally, two important seminars titled "Best Practices in Muhtarship and Outstanding Muhtars" and "Meeting of NGOs and Muhtars" will be held.

Mayor Eşki: “Our Muhtars Are the Cornerstones of Local Democracy”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized their commitment to a participatory and inclusive local governance approach, stating, “The strongest representatives of this approach are our neighborhood muhtars. Their more effective fulfillment of duties will also strengthen the bond we have with our citizens. This project is not only a training program but also part of our goal to improve governance quality in Bornova.”