Esad Çakır
2025 Eco-Hero
FINALIST
Esad Çakır
Age 13
Istanbul, Turkey
Making Ocean Science Accessible for All
Esad’s project, "Ocean Literacy," is a powerful example of how a student can transform an interest into a school-wide movement. Inspired by the lack of early ocean science education, he developed a comprehensive five-phase initiative to engage students from kindergarten to middle school in marine conservation, scientific research, and problem-solving.
Esad's project, which began in May 2024, included weekly science classes, student-led project development, and a culminating TÜBİTAK-sponsored science fair that showcased solutions from over 50 students and drew over 300 attendees. A hands-on leader, he personally produced all the educational materials—from booklets to banners—and worked with teachers to ensure the content was both scientifically rigorous and age-appropriate. His commitment to inclusivity and environmental justice was a driving force, as he provided opportunities for underrepresented students to meet with scientists and mentors.
Demonstrating exceptional initiative, Esad secured external collaborations with Yıldız Technical University's SHORE program and TÜBİTAK, which gave students a chance to refine their research and even consider patenting their solutions. He continues to expand the project's reach by organizing a field trip to Istanbul University's Water Sciences Faculty, proving his determination to overcome challenges in a school culture focused on exams.
Esad's passion for science extends beyond the oceans; he has designed spacecraft for asteroid mining and space debris collection. With his project, he’s shown that providing young minds with proper opportunities can ignite a love for science that leads to creative solutions and a healthier planet.
