Istanbul launches mentor teacher program for disadvantaged students

The Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education has launched the ‘Öğretmenim Benimle’ (My Teacher is With Me) project, which is currently seeking volunteer mentor teachers. The initiative aims to provide social, emotional, and academic support to students facing significant life challenges.

The target group for the project includes students who have lost parents, children affected by earthquakes, children of martyrs and veterans, and those living in state care or dormitories. Rather than focusing solely on academic performance, the project seeks to improve students' well-being, social connections, and school attendance.

Volunteer teachers will work one-on-one with designated students to help them feel more secure and valued. Applications for the volunteer mentor program are open until Friday, September 11, 2026. Interested educators must complete an application form and subsequently inform their respective school directorates.