16.06.2026 11:52
Retired teacher Sefa Konca, living in Düzce, has been raising silkworms for 5 years with state support. Producing approximately 200 kilograms of cocoons annually, Konca both earns economic income and greatly enjoys the production process.
Retired teacher Sefa Konca obtains approximately 200 kilograms of cocoons annually from silkworm farming he maintains with government support. The production he started as a hobby has now turned into an additional source of income.
Konca, who retired after serving as a classroom teacher for 5 years abroad and 25 years in various schools in Düzce, turned to silkworm farming to spend his free time. Learning the intricacies of production in a short time, Konca began earning income from the cocoons he obtained with the support of his wife Ayşe Konca.
HE CONTINUES PRODUCTION WITH GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
Konca, who benefits from various entrepreneurship supports provided by the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, raises silkworms in a 15-square-meter depot he set up in front of his house during May and June. During this process, he produces approximately 200 kilograms of cocoons.
Konca, stating that silkworm farming, which he started as a hobby, is a income-generating activity, expressed that he decided to turn to production after learning about government supports.
Konca said, "I feed my worms with mulberry leaves for a month. They spin cocoons in the last 10 days, and our work is done in 40 days. The work is light but requires a lot of attention. You give three meals a day like a human. Production is very enjoyable."
“YOUNG PEOPLE CAN TAKE UP THIS JOB”
Konca, comparing silkworm farming to the education sector where he worked for years, stated:
"The government sends the eggs, we just take care of them. There is no cost, only labor. I associate silkworm farming with children. It feels like I am continuing my duty at school. The government also buys the cocoons from us when we collect them. They deposit the payment into the account, so there is no marketing trouble."
Konca explained that this production model requires hygiene, and silkworms can get sick even from smells like cigarette, alcohol, and perfume.
Reminding that silkworm farming is done only during certain periods of the year, Konca concluded his words as follows:
"It starts in May, and our work is finished around June 10-15. Young people can take up this job. Our neighbors contact me and say they want to do it. Young people also ask. No major facilities are needed for care."