Agricultural Education for Children with Special Needs

Bornova Municipality welcomed students with special needs to the heart of local agriculture — the Ecological City Local Seed Center. The students learned about the journey of a seed and took their first steps into production with the help of volunteer university students. Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that the joy of touching the soil and producing food is a right everyone should experience.

Learning the Story of a Seed, On Site

Bornova Municipality’s Agricultural Services Department hosted students from a local Special Education and Rehabilitation Center at the Ecological City Local Seed Center. Touring the facility, the students gained basic knowledge of agriculture while enjoying time immersed in nature. They participated in hands-on learning, experiencing every step from planting a seed to harvesting the crop.

Hand in Hand with Volunteers: A Workshop of Shared Joy

University students in Bornova volunteered to support the children during the event, creating a meaningful example of solidarity. As part of the interactive workshops, the children planted seeds and winter vegetable seedlings. The activities were both educational and fun, contributing to the development of their motor skills.

Mayor Eşki: “Agriculture is a Right for Everyone — and We’re Growing That Right”

Commenting on the event, Mayor Ömer Eşki said:
“Touching the soil and experiencing the joy of producing is a right for all. It’s especially meaningful for us to include individuals with special needs in this process. Our Ecological City Local Seed Center is not only a hub of production but also a symbol of social inclusion. Together with our young volunteers, we witnessed a heartwarming scene of hope and connection.”