KTOEÖS: We Will Continue to Defend Secular Education and Fight for Our Rights

At 10:00 AM, protests were held outside schools where a joint statement was read by union representatives. The statement addressed various issues within the education system, such as overcrowded classrooms, the use of container classrooms in some schools, and the disconnect between the full-day education program and the actual educational needs. Teachers raised concerns that, despite long school hours, students' basic needs were not adequately addressed.

The statement also pointed out that teachers were taking on additional responsibilities due to a lack of security personnel, and the teachers’ workload had increased due to understaffing, which was negatively impacting students’ right to education.

Furthermore, the statement highlighted the lack of laboratory facilities in some schools, which hindered the effectiveness of practical lessons. The Ministry was accused of dismissing this issue as merely a “recognition” problem. The physical condition of the school buildings was also flagged as a potential risk, as there is no definitive report on the earthquake resistance of schools, causing concern among both students and teachers.

The protest also raised issues related to the rights of teachers hired under the “Migration Law.” It was stated that the salaries of newly appointed teachers are lower than those of other teachers performing the same duties.

Despite changes to the curriculum, the statement reaffirmed that teachers would not abandon their commitment to an egalitarian, free, and scientific approach to education. Teachers pledged to continue defending secular, scientific education and to fight for their rights.

"We Will Show Our Determination Once Again"

After the joint statement was read, KTOEÖS President Selma Eylem spoke to the press in front of İrsen Küçük Middle School, emphasizing their unwavering stance for modern, secular, and scientific education. Eylem stressed that teachers have been paying a price and making sacrifices in this fight.

She stated that the issues faced by teachers and the sacrifices they made were highlighted in the joint statement, which was read at all schools at 10:00 AM by union and school representatives.

Eylem also declared that KTOEÖS would continue to defend secular education and the societal values associated with it. She mentioned that they would once again underline their determination during the meeting with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, where they would present a letter and a report.