Darüssafaka

Darüssafaka, one of the most established non-governmental organizations in Turkey, that offers quality education to children without parents since 1863. The institution aims to realise its mission of “Lives Changed by Education”.

Darüssafaka Society, which has continued its existence with the support of many people and organizations since its establishment, meets the full scholarship and boarding education of more than 900 students every year with the income it generates. Darüssafaka has ensured that more than 7000 children have been educated at Darüssafaka Educational Institutions from the fourth grade of primary school until they finish high school, and that they have gone to university and received scholarships for their education there.

In the wake of major earthquakes in Turkey, Darüssafaka has provided emergency relief and support to affected communities, including the distribution of food, water, and other supplies. The institution has also partnered with big brands like Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, American Express, Union Pay, and BKM Express to create an ecosystem of social impact. 

Darüssafaka has inspired the establishment of other institutions in Turkey, including the Darüssafaka High School Alumni Association and the Darüssafaka Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting education and social justice. 

“Cemiyet-i Tedrisiyye-i Islamiye”, a society aiming to provide Islamic education, was established on 30 March 1863, upon an imperial order of the Sultan, by Yusuf Ziya Pasha, Gazi Ahmed Muhtar Pasha, Vidinli Tevfik Pasha, Sakizli Ahmet Pasha, and Ali Naki Effendi. The name "Darüssafaka" translates to "house of compassion" in Turkish, reflecting the institution's mission to help those in need. The purpose was to support education of needy and orphaned children. The society, whose members comprised of many Ottoman pashas and intellectuals, constituted the very first non-governmental organization of Turkey in the field of education.

The society established a new building in 1912, which allowed the school to expand its programs and accommodate more students. In 1928, the institution began to provide education to girls, in addition to boys, which was a significant milestone in the promotion of gender equality in Turkey. In 1933, Darüssafaka celebrated its 70th anniversary with a series of events and ceremonies. The institution also played a crucial role in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, providing education and support to the country's leaders and policymakers.

In 1954, Darüssafaka opened a new campus in Maslak, Istanbul, which allowed the institution to accommodate more students and offer new programs. In the following decades, Darüssafaka achieved several significant milestones, including the establishment of a high school in 1962 and the addition of new programs in science, technology, and the arts. In 1973, the institution celebrated its 110th anniversary with a series of events and ceremonies, showcasing the institution's commitment to providing education and support to underprivileged children.

In 1993, the institution established a music school, which provided students with the opportunity to pursue their passion for music and the arts. Darüssafaka also embraced new technologies, introducing computer education and internet access to its students in the late 1990s.

In 2005, Darüssafaka opened a new sports complex, providing students with access to state-of-the-art sports facilities and training programs.

In recent years, Darüssafaka has expanded its programs and initiatives to support the broader community. In 2011, the institution established the Darüssafaka Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting education and social justice in Turkey. The society has launched several successful initiatives, including scholarship programs for underprivileged students and support programs for families in need. In 2020, Darüssafaka celebrated its 157th anniversary, marking over a century and a half of commitment to education and social justice in Turkey.

To provide quality education and support to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds: One of the main goals of Darüssafaka is to provide equal access to education for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Through its programs and initiatives, the institution aims to break down the barriers that prevent children from accessing education and provide them with the necessary support to succeed academically and beyond.

To promote social justice and equality by breaking down barriers to education: Darüssafaka recognizes that access to education is essential to promoting social justice and equality. By providing education and support to children from underprivileged backgrounds, the institution aims to promote greater equality and break down the social and economic barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential.

To facilitate the development of future leaders and productive members of society: Darüssafaka's educational programs and initiatives are designed to help students develop the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to become leaders and productive members of society. Through a focus on academic excellence, social responsibility, and personal growth, Darüssafaka aims to prepare its students to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.

To inspire and encourage positive change in the broader community by promoting education and social justice: Darüssafaka's commitment to education and social justice extends beyond its own students. The institution aims to inspire and encourage positive change in the broader community by promoting education and social justice through its programs, initiatives, and partnerships with other organizations.

To provide emergency relief and support in the aftermath of disasters and crises: Darüssafaka recognizes the importance of providing emergency relief and support in the aftermath of disasters and crises. The institution has launched several initiatives aimed at providing support to communities affected by disasters, including earthquake support programs, food and water distribution, and other relief efforts.

To collaborate with other organizations and individuals to achieve these goals and promote positive change in society: Darüssafaka recognizes that achieving its goals and promoting positive change in society requires collaboration and partnership with other organizations and individuals. The institution actively seeks out partnerships and collaborations with other organizations and individuals who share its vision and mission.

Providing access to education for economically disadvantaged children: Darüssafaka has had a significant impact on the lives of children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by providing them with access to quality education and support. Graduates of the institution have gone on to achieve success in various fields, including business, politics, and academia.

Creating a community of support: Many graduates of Darüssafaka credit the institution with providing them with a community of support that helped them overcome challenges and achieve success. The institution's boarding school model has enabled students to develop strong bonds with their peers and teachers, creating a supportive environment that has helped many students thrive.

Inspiring philanthropy and giving back: Many graduates of Darüssafaka have gone on to become successful businesspeople and professionals, and have used their success to give back to the institution that helped them achieve their goals. The institution has a strong culture of philanthropy, with many graduates and supporters donating generously to support its mission.

Fostering a sense of social responsibility: Through its focus on social justice and equality, Darüssafaka has inspired many graduates to become advocates for positive change in their communities and the world. Graduates of the institution have gone on to work in various fields, including politics, activism, and social entrepreneurship.

Providing emergency relief and support: Darüssafaka has played an important role in providing emergency relief and support in the aftermath of disasters and crises. The institution has launched several initiatives aimed at providing support to communities affected by disasters, including earthquake support programs, food and water distribution, and other relief efforts.

Creating a home away from home: Darüssafaka's boarding school model has provided students from disadvantaged backgrounds with a safe and nurturing environment in which to grow and learn. The institution's residence stories are a testament to the positive impact that its boarding school model has had on the lives of its students. Many graduates credit the institution with providing them with a second family and a sense of belonging.