As technology advances, the importance of using it with a high level of competence increases. According to a report published by Türkiye’s ICT Authority, students in the country feel confident in their ability to perform basic tasks online. However, they feel less confident in their technical skills, such as using specific software or programming languages.
The Whiz Kids Project, conducted by Turkcell in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, aims to introduce Türkiye’s talented students to technology and develop their technical abilities at an early age. The objective is to foster a generation aged 8–18 who not only consume technology but also contribute to its development.
Established in Science and Art Centres across Türkiye, Whiz Kids Technology Classrooms provide students with opportunities to use laptops, 3D printers, robotic coding kits and other electronic devices. Students also receive training in AI, coding and robotics, and work on projects in these areas.
Since 2016, 76 classrooms have been established in 48 cities. The project has reached 250,000 students. To understand the changes experienced by the beneficiaries of Whiz Kids, a social return on investment analysis was conducted. According to the analysis, every TRY1 invested in the project generates TRY2.57 in social value. Changes experienced by students include increased confidence and curiosity, improved academic performance and greater interest in technology. Teachers also felt that it contributed to their professional development.
