On October 16th and 25th, 2024, Kargenc Environment Sport Club hosted two impactful sessions of the Walking Bus National Seminar in Türkiye. Organized respectively at Kuyumculu Primary School in a rural area and Erenler Primary School in an urban setting, the events brought together 42 participants—including school managers, teachers, parents, and young volunteers—to promote the Walking Bus initiative and explore its implementation across diverse communities.
The main objective was to introduce the Walking Bus concept as a safe, eco-friendly, and socially engaging school commuting alternative. The sessions aimed to raise awareness of its environmental benefits, address safety concerns, and foster collaboration between families, schools, and local stakeholders.
At Kuyumculu, discussions focused on the challenges of rural routes, such as longer distances and infrastructure gaps. Nevertheless, participants recognized the health benefits and community-building potential of the initiative. In the urban setting of Erenler, the conversation centered around managing heavy traffic, ensuring supervision, and designing safe, walkable pathways. In both locations, parents and teachers expressed high interest, asking thoughtful questions about volunteer coordination, safety protocols, route planning, and solutions for adverse weather.
While enthusiasm was high, recurring concerns emerged: safety in busy areas, the availability of trained volunteers, and parental hesitancy, particularly for younger children. Still, participants valued the Walking Bus as a way to promote children’s attention in class, reduce family stress during peak hours, and encourage physical activity.
The outcome of the seminar was highly positive. Participants developed a clearer understanding of safety practices, environmental benefits, and organizational strategies. Plans for follow-up training and collaboration with local authorities are underway, setting the foundation for a safe and replicable Walking Bus network across the region.
