The most expensive craft: Kilis masters teach with state support

Kilis Jewelers Chamber President Zafer Bilik talked about the unseen side of the jewelers' profession in the city.

Bilik, noting that there are six Syrian and six Turkish young people in the 12-person team working in the manufacturing workshops, said, "These young people are here to learn a profession. The Turkish students will continue working in Kilis, and our Syrian students will continue the professions they learned here when they return to their country."

Bilik noted that 90 students received training at the apprenticeship school with state support, adding that the state covers their insurance and salaries, allowing them to both acquire a profession and contribute financially to their families.

Bilik said, "Forty-five Syrian and 45 Turkish young people are receiving training in jewelry and jewelry window dressing. This number will increase even more in the future. Our profession is like gold; it doesn't retain dirt. These children are cleaner, more skilled, and more beautiful than gold."

"They speak Turkish, and our children have learned some Arabic," Bilik said. "They've built such a good relationship that they even have picnics together on weekends. These friendships will last a lifetime."

Bilik, noting that interest in the jewelry profession has increased compared to the past, said, "In the past, a master and an apprentice would work in shops of 5-10 square meters. Now, with the support provided by the state, families are directing their children to this profession."

Ahmet El Hamit, a 21-year-old Syrian, stated that he has been in Türkiye since he was six years old, saying, "I've been in the jewelry profession since I was eight. I've been in apprenticeship school for the last three years. I'm very pleased with the training I received from both the school and my master. My master has become like a father and mother to me. I will continue this profession when I return to my country. We have our gold bracelet, and God willing, I can continue in Syria."

Zafer Bilik emphasized their efforts to train talented young people for the jewelry profession, saying, "We utilize some in showcases, and some in workshops. Years ago, there were no jewelry classes in vocational high schools. As a chamber, we addressed the shortcomings in this field and brought it to where it is today. Now, we are also bringing in young people trained in our profession from schools."