“FIRST STEP TO SCHOOL GATHERING” HELD AT TURKISH MAARIF FOUNDATION
September 01, 2026
The “First Step to School Gathering” was held at the headquarters of Turkish Maarif Foundation in Istanbul to support children who are about to begin their education in adapting to school, turn this important beginning into an unforgettable memory for them, and introduce new generations to the centuries-old Âmin Alayı tradition dating back to the Ottoman era.
The programme, attended by children and their families, began with a welcoming and introductory activity. Throughout the day, the young participants enjoyed games and various children’s activities, spending an enjoyable time together while sharing the excitement of taking their first step into school life.
The Âmin Alayı Tradition Revived
One of the most special parts of the programme was the Âmin Alayı, one of the long-established traditions of Turkish-Islamic educational culture. In the past, this tradition transformed a child’s first day of education into a shared occasion of joy for the community. As part of the programme, the children walked to the Office of the President of Turkish Maarif Foundation accompanied by marches, salawat and prayers. President of Turkish Maarif Foundation Mahmut M. Özdil welcomed the children, spoke with them and wished them success throughout their educational journey.
President Mahmut M. Özdil also met online with Turkish Maarif Foundation country representatives from the 66 countries in which the Foundation operates. During the meeting, held on the occasion of the start of the new academic year, Özdil extended his congratulations to the country representatives and the education community, expressing his wishes for a successful and productive academic year for students, teachers and families. The children participating in the “First Step to School Gathering” also joined the online meeting and conveyed their good wishes to Turkish Maarif Foundation representatives across different parts of the world.
Bringing the first day of the children’s educational journey together with a traditional educational heritage, the programme concluded with an ice cream treat and commemorative photographs.
