January 2025, Malatya, Türkiye- CIFAL Istanbul team visited Malatya, one of the cities affected by the February 6 earthquakes. During the visit, the team came together with local authorities, gave a speech on sustainability awareness as a part of Heroes of the Nature seminar and they spent time with children in various workshops and activities.
On January 10, CIFAL Istanbul Team and Bright Futures Foundation visited the Head of Malatya Metropolitan Municipality Strategy Development Department in their Office to discuss possible improvements in the region, the sustainable reconstruction of schools and future collaborations that could contibute to education in the region. Later on the team visited Deputy Mayor of Malatya Battalgazi Municipality. During the meeting, the parties received information from the municipal authorities in regards the social services provided, the local needs and the recovery process in the region. Alongside the current issue at hand, possible supports and future collaborations were discussed.
On January 11, 2025, a meaningful event was held in Malatya’s Battalgazi district, offering support and inspiration to children and parents affected by the February 6 earthquake. A seminar was held in Battalgazi Municipality’s Conference Hall titled “Heroes of the Nature: Raising Awareness on Sustainability”. Ms. Aslıcan Açık and Mr. Eren Yalınkaya started their speech by explaining to the children and their parents what the United Nations is, what it stands for and what we all can do individually to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The team then touched upon important issues such as the protection of clean water, the use of renewable energy, sustainable cities, combating climate change and the protection of natural life. They tried to inspire children to become nature heroes by stating that they can create big changes with small steps. Throughout the event, interactive questions and interesting data and examples were used to encourage environment friendly habits and participants made a promise to strive for a more livable world together.
Various presentations took place during the seminar the main focus being educating children and families the importance of sustainability specifically waste reduction and the long-term benefits of adopting eco-friendly practices. At the end of the seminar, CIFAL Istanbul team presented books to the children who participated in the event and came together with the children in the tote bag painting workshop.
Over the three-day visit to Malatya, the CIFAL Istanbul team conducted effective activities to raise environmental awareness and the importance of taking steps for sustainable development in the region, starting from the individual level to the governmental authorities.