Turkish teacher overcoming disability selected as master educator for US project

Fethi Ahmet Oner, a biology teacher from Kayseri, Türkiye, who lost his right hand in a fire at the age of two, has been selected as a master educator for a prestigious biotechnology experiment project in the United States.

Despite facing bullying and being overlooked by some teachers during his education, Oner’s resilience and dedication to science led him to international success.

A life marked by challenges, determination

Oner’s journey began with hardship—losing his father at just six months old and his right hand in a fire at the age of two. Throughout his school years, he endured relentless peer bullying and even faced discouragement from some educators. To hide his scars, he often wore gloves and hats. However, his passion for learning never wavered.

Determined to prove himself, he pursued a degree in biology at Erciyes University’s Faculty of Science. Despite warnings that he would struggle in the laboratory with one hand, he refused to give up. After completing his studies, he worked in Ankara and Diyarbakir before returning to Kayseri, where he has been teaching for the past nine years.

Award-winning teacher making impact

For eight years, Oner taught at Hidayet Aydogan Social Sciences High School, where he guided students to success in national and international science competitions. In 2019, his remarkable contributions earned him the title of “Teacher of the Year” in Kayseri. However, his dream was to work at Murat Kantarci Science and Art Center (BILSEM), a leading institution for gifted students. After years of perseverance, he finally secured a position there in 2024.

His achievements include:

• TUBITAK Regional Finalist (2018): Led a project on the effects of mistletoe on parasitic fungi.
• International Recognition in Tunisia (2019): His team won third place at the International Biology Olympiad with a project using aquarium plants to purify wastewater.
• NASA Competition Success (2024): His students developed a 3D mapping system using satellite data to analyze moonquakes, winning first place in Kayseri.

Introducing Fethi Ahmet Oner, 2024-25 #ABEMTF from @ABE_Turkiye. Fethi has been working as a biology teacher in Türkiye for 21 years. His goals include mentoring young scientists and producing work that will increase the social benefit of science. Congratulations Fethi. pic.twitter.com/J0mzbACHlm

— Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE) Program Office (@ABEProgOffice) January 17, 2025

Heading to US as master educator

Oner’s latest milestone is being selected as a master educator for a U.S.-based biotechnology experiment project. Recognized for his expertise in scientific research and education, he has been invited to a three-day workshop in the United States in April.

Lifelong commitment to learning

Beyond his teaching career, Oner has continued his education, earning multiple degrees:

• Three bachelor’s degrees: Biology, Turkish Language and Literature, Web Design and Coding
• One associate degree
• Two master’s degrees in his field

“Success comes from embracing life with determination and continuous self-improvement,” he said. “I want my journey to inspire young people to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.”