SIX PROJECTS OF THE METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY WERE PRESENTED AS EXEMPLARY IN ANKARA.

At the BELFOR Municioalism Forum held in Ankara by the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye (TBB), Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality marked a notable success. At the forum, where hundreds of projects from across Türkiye were evaluated, six different initiatives of the municipality were selected as "exemplary projects" at the BELFOR Municipalism Forum and were granted the opportunity to be presented.

At the forum held at the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye Sevice Offices Building in Ankara, projects developed across a wide range of fields -- from care services and environmental policies to youth initiatives and participatory governance -- were discussed. During the event, a total of 203 projects were presented in 21 separate sessions, where municipalities from across Türkiye shared their experiences and best practices.

In this context, the Eskişehir Büyükşehir Belediyesi stood out with six projects reflecting its innovative approach to local governance. The initiatives implemented across the city attracted attention not only for their conceptual framework, but also for their direct impact on citizens' daily lives.

The BELFOR Municioalism Forum aims to enhance the exchange of experience among municipalities, facilitate the direct sharing of best practices, and foster new opportunities for cooperation.

PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING PRACTICE - "BI'FIKIRLE ESKISEHIR"

The model, which enables residents to directly participate in decision-making processes, was presented as a strong example of democratic municipal governance. The presentation was delivered by Özlem Koyuncu, Head of the Investment Planning Division under the Department of Strategic Development.

PORSUK BASIN PROTECTION PLAN

The project prepared by ESKİ to protect the Porsuk Dam Lake and Porsuk Stream basins was presented as an important model for sustainable water management. The presentation was delivered by Eylem Sıla Özer, Acting Head of the Drinking Water Basins Division.

CAR MAINTENANCE AND HOME REPAIR COURSES

The courses, aimed particularly at helping women gain technical skills, were highlighted among the projects promoting social equality and empowerment. The project was presented by Ceyda Söğüt from the Equality Unit of the Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality.

LIFELONG LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Four different programs carried out under the Vocational Training and Education Division were recognized by the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye (TBB) as best practice models. Conducted within the framework of social municipalism, the ESMEK non-formal education courses, ESMEK Summer Schools, the ESMEK Active Aging Workshop, and the Social Library initiatives were presented as an inclusive and innovative structure that brings together education, arts, culture, youth, and social services while supporting individuals' lifelong development and contributing to social progress.Azime Akkaya from the ESMEK unit introduced the projects during her presentation.

ZELIHA TABANCA YOUTH COUNSELING CENTER

The center, which provides guidance and support services for young people, was featured at the forum as an exemplary practice in the field of social policy. The presentation was delivered by Dalca Üreyen from the Equality Unit of the Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality.

60+ ACTIVE AGING MODEL

The public space-based model developed to support the social inclusion of individuals over the age of 60 drew attention with its "active aging" approach. The project was presented by Azime Akkaya from the ESMEK unit of the Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality.

The projects presented by Eskişehir at the forum stood out for their strong contribution to social welfare across a wide range of fields.

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