Students Explore Cycling Culture and Sustainable Transportation in Konya

The Konya Metropolitan Municipality organized a series of activities on June 3 to mark World Bicycle Day, aiming to introduce students to cycling culture and raise awareness of sustainable transportation.

As part of the “Multidimensional Development Model Based on Physical Activity for Gifted Students Project,” conducted by the Konya Provincial Directorate of National Education under the TÜBİTAK 4004 Support Program and supported by the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, a group of sixth-grade students from Science and Art Centers (BİLSEM) visited the Velespit Museum, the only museum of its kind in Türkiye.

At the museum, students learned about the historical development of the bicycle, the benefits of cycling, and Konya’s strong cycling culture as a European Cycling Capital.

Following the visit, students participated in a workshop at the Velespit Museum, where they gained hands-on experience in a bicycle repair setting. They explored bicycle components and created designs aimed at improving selected parts, sharing their ideas with peers to demonstrate creativity and problem-solving skills.

As part of the program, the students also experienced one of Konya’s model transportation projects by riding the bicycle tram. They then cycled along dedicated bike lanes, gaining practical experience in safe and sustainable urban mobility. Before the activity, groups were asked questions such as “What are the benefits of cycling?” and “What is sustainability?”, and afterward, they shared their reflections.

The project aims not only to provide theoretical knowledge but also to develop social skills such as leadership, empathy, teamwork, and innovative thinking, while encouraging healthy lifestyle habits and interdisciplinary learning.

Konya, the European Cycling Capital

Konya Metropolitan Municipality’s efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport have gained international recognition. The European Capitals and Cities of Sport Federation (ACES) awarded Konya the title of European Cycling Capital for 2026.