Turkish educators implement programs to combat peer bullying

Educational initiatives in Turkey are targeting peer bullying through awareness programs and kindness-based projects. In the Nazilli district of Aydın, following awareness efforts that reached 6,400 students, comprehensive seminars were held for teachers. These sessions, led by psychologist-author Oya Doğan and educator-author Metin Özdamarlar, focused on methods to combat bullying and strategies for instilling a reading culture in children.

In Bolu, the “Heart of Kindness” project at Orhan Gazi Middle School has successfully reduced bullying by fostering a culture of compassion. Developed by Associate Professor Şeyda Karabörk of Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, the initiative emphasizes positive communication over punitive measures. The project involves students using polite language, participating in reading programs, and decorating school areas with messages of kindness. The program has expanded to include teachers and parents to strengthen social solidarity within the school environment.