Fundación MAPFRE and Tohum Autism Foundation Transform Education for Children with Autism Across Turkey

Through its deep-rooted commitment to social progress, Fundación MAPFRE continues to strengthen educational opportunities for children on the autism spectrum. In partnership with the Tohum Autism Foundation, the organization has expanded the “A Seed in Every Classroom” project, focusing on inclusive learning environments that foster growth, equality, and awareness.

With the support of Fundación MAPFRE, three new special education classrooms were recently renovated in Istanbul, Aydın, and Hatay. These state-of-the-art classrooms were designed to provide an environment that encourages learning and development for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, family members, teachers, school leaders, and peers participated in targeted training programs, creating a more compassionate ecosystem for children with autism.

Creating Educational Spaces with Lasting Impact

Erdinç Yurtseven, CEO of MAPFRE Insurance, expressed his pride in the project, noting that Fundación MAPFRE has, for over 50 years, acted as a driving force behind global initiatives promoting education, health, and social inclusion. He emphasized that through the collaboration with the Tohum Autism Foundation, they aim to build quality educational settings that empower children with autism to unlock their potential. “The newly renovated classrooms in Istanbul, Aydın, and Hatay symbolize our ongoing dedication to shaping a future where every child has access to an inclusive and supportive learning environment,” he stated.

Yurtseven also reaffirmed Fundación MAPFRE’s long-term commitment to Turkey, highlighting that their efforts are rooted in a vision of sustainable social benefit and measurable community impact.

Growing Together for a More Inclusive Future

Burçak Karakaya, General Manager of the Tohum Autism Foundation, highlighted the urgency of expanding early intervention opportunities for children with autism. “Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that typically becomes evident within the first years of life,” Karakaya explained, stressing that early and consistent special education is the key to meaningful development. She added, “By strengthening special education classrooms, we are providing not only physical spaces but also an educational ecosystem that engages teachers and families. The support from Fundación MAPFRE and MAPFRE Insurance is a testament to the difference collective care can make.”

To date, the ‘Every Classroom a Seed’ initiative has led to the renovation of 222 special education classrooms in 45 provinces across Turkey. Each classroom is equipped with specialized educational materials that address the unique learning needs of students diagnosed with ASD. Beyond physical improvements, the project includes continuous teacher development programs and family support networks that ensure long-term educational success.

Supporting Education Beyond Challenges

Following the devastating earthquakes of February 6, the initiative extended its reach to rebuild and enhance 38 special education classrooms across Adana, Adıyaman, Hatay, Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep, and Malatya. These renewed spaces symbolize resilience and hope, offering students renewed opportunities to continue their education in an environment that understands their needs.

The Fundación MAPFRE and Tohum Autism Foundation partnership continues to inspire positive change—ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, can learn, grow, and thrive within an inclusive educational journey.