The 2025 Maarif Painting Contest was conducted under the theme “My Happy Family,” giving learners a chance to reflect on the people and moments that bring joy, care, and a sense of belonging into their lives. Through painting, students expressed personal stories of family life using colour, imagination, and emotion.The artworks displayed warmth, creativity, and individuality, with many paintings depicting everyday family moments, celebrations, and shared activities. The variety of styles and interpretations showed how differently students understand and experience happiness within the family setting.Entries were assessed with focus on creativity, clarity of expression, relevance to the theme, and overall artistic presentation. The selected winners distinguished themselves through expressive use of colour, thoughtful composition, and strong emotional connection to the theme.The Maarif Painting Contest continues to play an important role in nurturing artistic expression and emotional development among students. We applaud all participants for their dedication and creativity, and we extend our appreciation to the teachers and judges who supported and guided the learners throughout the competition. We proudly celebrate the 2025 winners and look forward to future painting contests that continue to inspire creativity and self-expression.Here are some outstanding pictures of the artwork.

The 2025 Maarif Photography Competition has officially come to a successful close, showing exceptional creativity, technical skill, and powerful storytelling through the lens. This year's competition attracted an impressive number of entries from talented students across different grade levels, each capturing unique perspectives inspired by their environment, culture, and everyday life under the theme "My Happy Family" .The judging panel carefully evaluated all submissions based on originality, composition, clarity, and the ability to communicate a meaningful message. The overall quality of the photographs reflected not only artistic talent but also a growing appreciation for visual storytelling and digital creativity among our students.We are proud to announce that the winning photographs stood out for their strong visual impact, thoughtful themes, and excellent use of photographic techniques. The results highlight the dedication, patience, and passion demonstrated by the participants throughout the competition.The Maarif Photography Competition continues to serve as a platform for nurturing creativity, confidence, and self-expression. We congratulate all the winners and commend every participant for their effort and enthusiasm. Special appreciation goes to the teachers, mentors, and judges who contributed to the success of this event. As we celebrate the 2025 winners, we look forward to even greater creativity and participation in future competitions. Here are some pictures that were outstanding

The 5th Istanbul Education Summit, organized by the Turkiye Maarif Vakfi (Turkish Maarif Foundation), is set to be a significant international platform for redefining the future of global education. Scheduled for December 5-6, 2025, the summit will gather policymakers, academics, teachers, and experts under the compelling main theme: "Healing the World Through Education."A Focus on Human-Centred LearningThe image highlights the summit's ambitious goal of positioning education not just as a tool for career development, but as a critical lever for addressing global challenges and promoting human values. By focusing on "Healing the World," the 5th edition will serve as a comprehensive forum to discuss:Educational Policies: Strategies for grounding education in ethical and humanitarian values.Social Impacts: The role of learning in fostering compassion, social justice, and a sense of shared global responsibility.Learning Approaches: Developing curricula and methods that move beyond technical knowledge to instill wisdom and moral understanding.Key Highlights of the 2025 SummitThe two-day event will be held at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, and is planned to feature a high-level opening session graced by Her Excellency Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, First Lady of the Republic of Türkiye.The program is structured around key sessions designed to spark deep conversation:High-Level Session: Will address the strategic directions for education policy in contributing to a better, more peaceful world."Revealing the Known in the Mirror of Education" Panel: A philosophical exploration of global challenges, analyzed from an educational perspective to understand their root causes and effects."Beyond the Curriculum: The Art of Humanity" Panel: This session will delve into how education can transcend mere knowledge accumulation to cultivate moral values and wisdom in students."From Schools to Society: The Collaboration Ecosystem" Session: A discussion on strengthening cultural belonging while encouraging active contribution to a global culture of cooperation."A Call from Youth to Tomorrow: From Idea to Action" Closing Session: A platform dedicated to young people to present their innovative ideas and potential contributions to the future.The Maarif Foundation's Global CommitmentAs the organizer, the Turkiye Maarif Vakfi uses the Istanbul Education Summit to solidify Istanbul as a dynamic hub for discussing contemporary educational issues and institutionalizing ideas that deeply examine the field. The summit is also a space for showcasing global excellence, featuring presentations on "Best Practices in Education" from Maarif Schools operating around the world and hosting an exhibition of the 5th International Maarif Photography Competition.Since its launch in 2021, the Istanbul Education Summit has grown into an influential annual event, continuing its mission to offer a global perspective on the future of education, aiming for the happiness and well-being of all humanity.TO BE PART OF THIS AMAZING EVENT, PLEASE COPY THE LINK BELOW AND PASTE IT IN YOUR BROWSER TO REGISTER  https://register.istanbuleducationsummit.com/form

We are thrilled to announce the Maarif Painting Contest 2025 , a vibrant celebration of creativity, family, and youthful expression. This year's theme, “My Happiest Moment with My Family,” invites students to reflect on the joyful memories that shape their lives and bring them closer to those they love.Open to Middle School (Category 1) and High School (Category 2) learners, the contest encourages participants to capture their most cherished family moments on canvas—whether it's a quiet evening together, a shared adventure, or a simple act of love that left a lasting impression.🗓️ Contest Date: October 24, 2025Through this initiative, we aim to nurture artistic talent, strengthen family bonds, and give students a platform to express their stories in color and form. The poster itself reflects this spirit—a father and child painting side by side, another child joyfully adding color to a wall—reminding us that creativity thrives in togetherness.We invite all eligible students to join us in this heartwarming journey. Let your brush tell your story. Let your art speak of love.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has praised the Turkish Government for its investment in Zambia’s education sector during the official opening of the International Maarif Schools of Lusaka (IMSL) on March 27, 2025.Officiating at the ceremony, Mr. Syakalima emphasized that education is the cornerstone of any society, stressing the importance of supporting and expanding quality learning opportunities across the country. He acknowledged the Turkish Government’s contribution through the establishment of three schools and two dormitories in Zambia.Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, also commended the initiative, describing the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF) as an institution that embodies cooperation and solidarity among nations and cultures.In his remarks, Turkish Ambassador to Zambia, Huseyin Barbaros, stated that the Maarif Schools in Zambia symbolize the growing friendship and educational cooperation between the two countries.Turkish Deputy Minister of Education, Bilal Macit, reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s education system, assuring that his government will continue to collaborate in strengthening educational infrastructure and quality. The event marks a major step forward in the Zambia–Turkey partnership, particularly in the area of education, and reflects both nations’ dedication to empowering future generations through learning.

Children like to "play doctor", as it is sometimes known, because they are naturally curious about things they see or experience, including visiting the doctor's office. By acting out these sorts of experiences, children are able to develop a greater familiarity and understanding of the situation, which in turn satisfies their curiosity.