Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality is organizing YAYATHON 2026, a special idea marathon aimed at engaging university students and young innovators in shaping the future of pedestrian transportation. The event will take place on June 5–6, 2026, bringing together participants to develop creative and practical solutions for a more walkable, accessible, and sustainable city.

As part of the Kocaeli Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SKUp) and the Kocaeli Pedestrian Transportation Strategies and Action Plan, participants will focus on improving pedestrian environments in selected areas of İzmit and Darıca. Proposed ideas are expected to address themes such as accessibility, safety, public space quality, pedestrian–public transport integration, and climate-responsive urban design.

Designed as a 12-hour intensive competition, YAYATHON 2026 encourages interdisciplinary teamwork and innovative thinking. The most promising ideas will be evaluated based on technical feasibility, practicality, and implementation potential, with selected proposals contributing to the city's Pedestrian Transportation Action Plan.

The competition offers a total of 15,000 TL in prizes:

• First Prize: 7,500 TL
• Second Prize: 5,000 TL
• Eco-Friendly Idea Award: 2,500 TL

The application deadline is May 25, 2026.

For detailed information, competition guidelines, and the application form, please visit:

https://yayathon.kocaeli.bel.tr

Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality invites all undergraduate and graduate students to take part in this unique event and contribute innovative ideas for creating more pedestrian-friendly urban spaces.