Çimko invests in the digital future of children in southeastern Türkiye in partnership with UNICEF

Gaziantep, 22 January 2026 – Çimko is launching a new partnership under UNICEF’s MakerUp Programme, which focuses on strengthening children’s skills in creation, critical thinking, and problem-solving through technology. Through this collaboration, the initiative aims to enhance the digital skills of children in Southeastern Türkiye, ensure more equitable access to technology, and reach 5,000 children each year.

Çimko, the cement and concrete company of Sanko Holding, is implementing a three-year social impact initiative to strengthen the digital skills of children in Southeastern Türkiye through its support to UNICEF’s MakerUp Programme. Representing a strategic investment in the region’s future, the programme aims to equip children aged 7–14 with the skills to create, think, and solve problems using technology, while enabling more equal access to the opportunities of the digital age.

The MakerUp Programme supports children to become producers of technology rather than passive consumers, offering training in robotics applications, coding exercises, 3D modelling, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Through the programme, children develop skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and project development, gaining essential competencies required in today’s digital world.

Dr. Önder Kırca, Çimko CEO, stated: “The MakerUp Programme goes beyond introducing children to technology; it supports them in thinking, producing, and confidently shaping their own paths. Through this collaboration, implemented with UNICEF’s field expertise and extensive operational capacity, we are not only teaching technology, but also fostering children’s creativity, productivity, and self-confidence. Our goal is to ensure that children in Southeastern Türkiye can participate in the digital world on equal terms. We believe that the curiosity and creativity children develop today will turn into the innovative solutions of tomorrow. Through the MakerUp Programme, which we plan to run for three years, we aim to reach 5,000 children every year.”

Paolo Marchi, UNICEF Türkiye Representative, said: “Private sector partnerships play a vital role in shaping children’s futures. Our collaboration with Çimko demonstrates how private sector support can translate into lasting impact for children, creating safe and inclusive learning opportunities in both urban and rural areas. This partnership contributes to expanding children’s access to skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the future.”

As part of the partnership, fully equipped Maker classrooms have been established at the Gaziantep Youth Centre and the Adıyaman Dr. Şerif Ayaz Culture and Education Centre. Equipped with computers, coding kits, sensors, motor sets, LEGO educational materials, and 3D printers, these classrooms provide children with a structured and safe learning environment. The classrooms also represent a lasting investment that strengthens the region’s long-term educational capacity.

Beyond city centres, the programme reaches rural areas through a Mobile Maker Vehicle, operating primarily in Gaziantep and extending to Adıyaman, Kahramanmaraş, Kilis, Şanlıurfa, and Mardin. This model aims to reduce barriers to digital development by providing equal opportunities for children with limited access to technology.