Back-to-School Costs Strain Budgets: Stationery Bills Exceed Family Finances

With the new academic year looming, the cost of school supplies is creating a significant burden for many families in Turkey. For households already grappling with poverty, essential items like pens, notebooks, and art supplies are becoming a major challenge, competing directly with rent, utility bills, and basic food expenses. Experts warn that this economic strain is not just a temporary hardship but is solidifying a cycle of inequality that affects children's educational prospects and overall health.

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School expenses emerge at the same time as school uniforms and shoe costs. Many families are not asking 'What do I want to buy?' but rather 'What can I afford to buy?'

Dr. Önder Uçar, Research and Advocacy Coordinator at the Deep Poverty Network, described the back-to-school period as one of the most financially demanding times for families living in deep poverty. "School expenses emerge at the same time as school uniforms and shoe costs," Uçar explained. "Many families are not asking 'What do I want to buy?' but rather 'What can I afford to buy?'" He cited a study of 108 households last October, where 93 struggled to cover school costs and 91 had difficulty providing regular meals for their children. While not representative of the entire country, these figures illustrate the severe budget constraints faced by many.

The economic pressures force difficult choices. "Spending on one necessity means cutting back on another," Uçar noted. Children from struggling families may face inadequate study environments due to unpaid utility bills or skip meals. Uçar also observed that families are bringing up stationery needs earlier this year, indicating a growing urgency to secure these items despite financial limitations.

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Spending on one necessity means cutting back on another.

Dr. Emrah Kırımlı, a board member of the Istanbul Chamber of Medicine, raised concerns about the health implications of families opting for cheaper, potentially less safe, school supplies. "Choosing cheaper products can pose risks to children's health," Kırımlı stated, emphasizing the importance of product safety, especially for young children who might put items in their mouths or accidentally ingest small parts. He stressed that parents should not be forced to choose between safety and affordability. "A product that seems cheap at first glance can end up being more expensive in the long run," Kırımlı warned, underscoring the critical need for public support to alleviate these burdens and ensure equitable access to education.

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Choosing cheaper products can pose risks to children's health. Parents should not be forced to choose between safety and affordability. A product that seems cheap at first glance can end up being more expensive in the long run.