MEANINGFUL AWARD FROM ANKARA FOR ESKİŞEHİR

Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality has achieved another significant national success with its youth-oriented vision of local governance. At the 1st Youth-Friendly Cities Governance Summit held in Ankara, the Municipality was honoured with the Youth-Friendly City Good Governance Encouragement Award (2026). Receiving the award on behalf of the young people of Eskişehir, Mayor Ayşe Ünlüce said, "This pride belongs to all of Eskişehir."

Hosted and institutionally supported by the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye (TBB), the 1st Youth-Friendly Cities Governance Summit was organised in Ankara as part of the Peer Project, carried out in partnership by the Youth Services Centre Association (GSM) and the Turkish European Foundation (TAV).

The summit recognised municipalities that promote youth participation in local governance and incorporate a youth perspective into public policies. Standing out with its visionary projects, youth centres and strong commitment to socially responsible municipal services, Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality earned the admiration of the jury and received one of the summit's most prestigious awards.

Taking the stage to enthusiastic applause during the award ceremony, Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ayşe Ünlüce emphasised that Eskişehir is truly a "capital of youth." Drawing attention to the city's consistent success in independent research, Mayor Ünlüce continued:

"As Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality, we are proud to be a true youth city with our three public universities and dynamic young population. Through our 24-hour public transportation services, student residences, extensive social opportunities and continuous support for young people, our Youth Centre has been carrying out truly remarkable work. Therefore, receiving this award is of great value to us.

Indeed, according to all independent studies, Eskişehir has consistently ranked among the leading 'Youth-Friendly Cities' since 2017. It is a great honour to share this well-deserved pride with you today. I accept this meaningful award on behalf of all the young people living in Eskişehir and the dedicated representatives of our Youth Centre, who have been working with great commitment and devotion for many years. I sincerely thank everyone who deemed us worthy of this award and extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to you all from Eskişehir."