ALKU Playhouse and Toy Library Comes to Life

ALKÜ Launches “Playhouse and Toy Library” Project

Alanya’s Alaaddin Keykubat University (ALKÜ) is launching the “ALKÜ Playhouse and Toy Library” project to support child development and reduce social inequality.

While continuing to contribute to the academic community nationally and internationally, ALKÜ is committed to enriching its local region. The new initiative, led by Dr. Onay Budak from the Child Development Program at ALKÜ’s Vocational School of Health Services, along with Prof. Dr. Mustafa Uslu, Assoc. Dr. Salih Tellioğlu, and Lecturer Dr. Ayşe Gül Gök, aims to strengthen academic education and facilitate access to play and toys for disadvantaged children.

As part of the project, the Playhouse and Toy Library will utilize educational materials produced by students during their practical courses. It will also provide a dedicated space to meet the play and developmental needs of children aged 0–3.

Implemented in collaboration with local governments, NGOs, and educational institutions, the project will serve children in Alanya as well as children of local and international families visiting the region. It is designed to provide societal benefits and enrich the city’s social and cultural life.

RECTOR TÜRKDOĞAN: “CHILDREN ARE THE PUREST FORM OF HOPE”

ALKÜ Rector Prof. Dr. Kenan Ahmet Türkdoğan emphasized the importance of university-community partnerships, stating, “We recognize that education goes beyond the university level. Projects that reach all age groups are important to us. Children are the purest form of hope, and the ‘Playhouse and Toy Library’ is a concrete reflection of this philosophy. I hope this project benefits our region, supports child development, and enhances our students’ practical skills. My heartfelt thanks go to the academics, students, stakeholders, and donors who will contribute their old, new, or nostalgically valued toys and financial donations.”

DR. ONAY BUDAK: “WE ARE WELCOMING YOUR DONATIONS”

Project leader Dr. Onay Budak stressed that this initiative is significant not only in terms of education but also in social responsibility and community development. “This project will provide an environment where our students can apply theoretical knowledge in practice. It will also support the cognitive, psychomotor, emotional, and social development of children—especially those in disadvantaged situations—by offering toys and educational materials. All resources will be meticulously prepared by our students and reviewed by experts.

The Playhouse and Toy Library will not be just a materials-sharing space; it will become a comprehensive centre with observation and counselling rooms where we can monitor children’s development and provide parental guidance. This way, we will meet children’s developmental needs and support the professional growth of our students.”

Dr. Budak appealed to benefactors: “We invite generous donors to contribute toys—old but in good condition, new or with nostalgic value—as well as financial donations.”

Project Coordinator: Dr. Onay Budak

E‑Mail: onay.budak@alanya.edu.tr

Instagram: cgu.onaybudak

Phone: +90 242 510 60 60 (ext. 1625)

IBAN: TR090001500158007356736248 (Note: ALKÜ Toy Library)