Türkiye: Resilience Innovation Facility

Elements of Innovation

• Youth
• Social Cohesion and Community Participation
• Data, Research and Technology

What is the project about?

Gaziantep is one of the biggest refugee-hosting provinces in Türkiye. Of Türkiye’s over 3.6 million Syrians under temporary protection, Gaziantep is home to over 440,000 Syrians. In this context, this initiative was launched to open a Resilience Innovation Facility, or Fabrication Lab, housed by Gaziantep University. This space is designed to empower youths in Gaziantep – whether Syrian refugees or Turkish host community members living in the area – by providing education, community, workforce, and business programming that teaches innovation, design-thinking, problem-solving, and change-making.

The Innovation Facility offers open and equitable access to modern digital fabrication tools, equipment, and technology, providing an avenue for young people to prototype, create, learn, and innovate. The facility offers a space for the most vulnerable young people with varying educational levels to access courses, equipment, and mentoring opportunities. Additionally, it operates an open-door policy to offer digital, technology, and entrepreneurial skills training to university students, refugees or potential migrants who have had limited access to higher education and training opportunities.

How is the project innovative?

The Resilience Innovation Facility introduces an innovative approach to engaging and empowering youth through training and job opportunities within the realms of the digital space and circular economy. In an era where digital proficiency is essential, the facility harnesses youth’s attitude towards digital technologies, enabling deeper and more meaningful engagement. A standout feature of this initiative is its emphasis on active participation and leadership among the youth.

Enabling youth to develop and execute projects, the facility fosters a sense of accomplishment and ownership. Beyond skill acquisition, the facility offers a safe space for young minds, combining rich learning opportunities with a collaborative environment. This safe space not only stimulates knowledge acquisition but also encourages the exchange of ideas, building trust, and fostering meaningful social and economic participation. Its inclusive and open methodologies promote participation, and empowerment, serving as a model for sustainable solutions. The initiative's unique mix of digital knowledge, active participation, and community-driven approaches is reshaping how youth engage with training, opportunities, and each other.