07 March 2025
Education is one of the most essential tools for the advancement of societies and the shaping of individual lives. Especially when women take part in education and contribute to its development, future generations grow up to be more conscious, empowered, and equipped. The contributions of women to education in Türkiye and around the world have not only resulted in individual success stories, but also paved the way for societal transformation. Here are some remarkable women who left a lasting impact on education and continue to inspire young women today:
At a time when women’s access to education was severely limited in the Ottoman Empire, some trailblazing women made significant strides in this area. Nimetullah Hafsa Kadın was one of the philanthropists of the 18th century who supported the education of women. The primary schools (sıbyan mektepleri) she built in Istanbul enabled girls to learn literacy and receive basic religious and academic education. As one of the few women who promoted girls’ education in her time, she became a pioneer who shed light on today’s educational opportunities.
Women entering the teaching profession marked a major turning point for gender equality in education. Zehra Hanım was one of the figures who encouraged women’s participation in education during the modernization of the Ottoman education system. As a graduate of Darülmuallimat (School for Female Teachers) in the late 19th century, she taught young girls and demonstrated that women could not only be students, but also educators.
In the early years of the Turkish Republic, Hacı Fatma Tatari played a vital role in expanding women’s access to education. She led the opening of the first girls’ school in Şanlıurfa and strongly believed in the empowerment of women through education, especially in Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia. The school she founded became more than just an institution; it turned into a center where women could grow and develop themselves. Her legacy still lives on in the field of education today.
In the final years of the Ottoman Empire, Hayrünnisa Hanım was one of the women who not only supported access to education but also encouraged women to serve their communities. She was among the supporters of institutions like Darülaceze (Almshouse) and Darülfünun (University), advocating for women to be more active in both education and public life. Thanks to such dedicated volunteers, education became a transformative power, not just a personal gain.
Şule Yüksel Şenler was a passionate advocate for women building their identities through education and awareness. Through her writings and public talks, she encouraged women to take on more active roles in society. Particularly within conservative circles, she emphasized the importance of women's education and became a model of intellectual and academic growth. Her ideas still serve as a source of inspiration for women striving to embrace education more strongly.
Today, organizations such as TÜRGEV continue to work toward increasing women's participation in education. Through scholarship programs, dormitory support, and academic projects, countless educational volunteers are helping young women face the future with confidence.
Just like the many women whose lives have been transformed through education, today’s youth are investing in learning as individuals who will build the future. You too can join this inspiring journey by becoming part of communities dedicated to education and supporting initiatives that improve access to knowledge.
Success in education requires a systematic, planned, and disciplined approach. At TÜRGEV, we are proud to stand beside students on their academic journey with scholarships, dormitories, and educational support programs.
