# Vocational training and professional development in Turkey > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/vocational-training-and-professional-development-in-turkey > Updated: 2026-10-21T10:19:52.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. Vocational training programs in Turkey have been utilized to foster personal growth, economic independence, and specialized industry skills. Initial reports highlight individual successes through municipal and public education initiatives, such as culinary training in Buca, welding courses in Isparta, and handicraft instruction in Batman. These programs have enabled citizens to open businesses or transition into professional teaching roles. More recent developments show a shift toward large-scale institutional partnerships. The Ministry of National Education and Akbank have launched the ‘Dönüşümde Gelecek Var’ project in Hatay, which focuses on upcycling techniques to support zero waste and climate change goals. Additionally, Afyon Kocatepe University has partnered with the Participation Banks Association of Turkey to provide career training in participation finance, aiming to integrate interest-free financial models into vocational education. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-21: Turkey launches vocational upcycling and participation finance initiatives Turkey introduces new programs: a Ministry of National Education and Akbank upcycling project for vocational training, and a participation finance career program at Afyon Kocatepe University. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-launches-vocational-upcycling-and-participation-finance-initiatives ### 2026-10-18: Vocational training programs drive personal growth in Turkey Vocational training programs in Turkey are empowering individuals through skill acquisition, ranging from culinary arts and welding to traditional handicrafts. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vocational-training-programs-drive-personal-growth-in-turkey --- Cite as: Vocational training and professional development in Turkey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/vocational-training-and-professional-development-in-turkey