Honoring the Symbol of Peace

Private Piri Reis Schools were awarded for the 17th time at the 20th “Respect for History Local Conservation Awards”, organized by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, for their project about olives and olive trees, the long-standing symbols of peace worldwide.

Known for being the institution with the most participation in these awards, Private Piri Reis Schools received an award in the category of “Honoring School Projects That Protect History” with their project, “The Symbol of Peace, Urla’s Green Treasure.”

They spared no effort

The 5th-grade students launched the project with a visit to Klazomenai, home to the world’s oldest olive oil production facility. Their work extended beyond in-depth research on olives. They explored a modern olive oil factory and museum in Guzelbahce, gaining insights into the evolution of olive oil production.

The students harvested olives from their school garden, learned the curing process, and prepared jars of olives. These were sold at a charity event, with the proceeds donated to children’s charities.
Additionally, they took photos of local olive trees, wrote pieces inspired by these photos, and compiled them into a book. They also created posters and brochures to share their newfound knowledge with those around them.

“Participating in this competition has become a tradition for us,” said Ataseven. “Private Piri Reis Schools are committed to their traditions. The Respect for History Local Conservation Awards align perfectly with our school’s philosophy. Every year, our students focus on a new topic. The world is in greater need of peace than ever before. Olives and olive trees have symbolized peace for centuries. By selecting olives this year, our students highlighted peace, sustainable living, and nature.”