Turkey expands free swimming lessons for children, including special‑needs program

In Iğdır, Turkey, 15 children with special needs swam for the first time in a semi‑Olympic pool under the supervision of coaches. The event was organized by the Iğdır Governorate, the provincial Youth and Sports Directorate and the non‑profit İnci Taneleri Association. Youth and Sports Director Recai Şahin said the project aims to support personal development and will later add gymnastics and judo, with activities three times a week.

In İzmit, Kocaeli Province, the municipal "Yüzme Bilmeyen Kalmasın" (No Child Left Without Swimming) initiative began its July session, offering free swimming instruction to 1,285 children. Eleven coaches and two lifeguards supervise the lessons, teaching water safety and basic techniques. Project coordinator Levent Azazi emphasized that "swimming is a life‑saving skill" and participants will receive certificates upon completion.