Tahir Büyükakın: Kocaeli Has Become a Student-Friendly City

During the "International Culture Meeting" held in Kocaeli with the participation of students from 46 countries, Tahir Büyükakın, Mayor of the Metropolitan Municipality, emphasized Kocaeli's new identity as a "student-friendly" city. In his speech, he noted that the city is no longer known only for heavy industry, but has become a dynamic environment for the scientific and cultural growth of young people [1].

Kocaeli; A Home for the World's Students During the ceremony organized in cooperation with Kocaeli University and the International Student Association, Büyükakın stated that domestic and international students are accepted in this city like the children of the citizens themselves. Addressing the students, he said: "Do not feel like strangers here; you are the children of this city, and we have provided all facilities for your comfort and peace" [1]. This approach is part of the municipality's grand strategy to transform Kocaeli into a center that students leave with happy memories and deep bonds after graduation.

Unprecedented Financial and Welfare Support One of the main reasons for Büyükakın's claim about the city being student-friendly is the extensive financial support packages implemented for the 2025-2026 academic year. Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality has provided financial support to 30,000 students by allocating a budget of 392 million TL [2]. According to this plan, university students receive 2,500 TL monthly and students of other levels receive 1,250 TL, which is deposited directly into their "Kart 41" (the municipality's social services card) [2]. This support, along with special transportation discounts and the renewal of the bus and tram fleet, has significantly reduced the financial burden of studying in this city.

Vision of the "Youth Capital" The designation of Kocaeli as the "Youth Capital" by the Presidency of Turkey has created additional motivation for construction and cultural projects [3]. Büyükakın announced that in late June 2026, the city will host the "Turkic World Youth Camp," which is expected to be held with the presence of high-ranking officials [3]. The development of youth centers, modern libraries, and shared study spaces are other measures that have optimized the city's infrastructure for student life. According to the Mayor, the ultimate goal is for Kocaeli to be recognized as a model of student-centered urban management not only in Turkey but also internationally [1][3].