November 16, 2013

Behind the war over prep schools

Mustafa Akyol

One of the latest political controversies in Turkey is about the government’s plan to close (or “transform”) the so-called prep schools. But do not be misled by the tip of the iceberg: This is an issue that goes way beyond matters of education, and rather unveils the silent conflict between the government and one of Turkey’s most influential civil society groups.

Gülen urges patience over prep schools row

Fethullah Gulen
Fethullah Gulen
Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen expressed unhappiness over government plans to abolish educational institutions that assist high school students to prepare for the national university admission examination and urged people to be patient in the face of this move, which is interpreted as a blow to education in the country.

Gülen calls on followers to adapt to PM’s teaching center closures

Prominent Turkish religious leader Fethullah Gülen has defied promises by the prime minister to close down preparation schools, many of which are run by the scholar’s followers, calling on members of the movement to create alternatives.

Gülen says he would free all coup convicts if he had the means

Turkish and Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has announced that he would free all the convicts of coup trials if he had the means to do so.