Ministry of Education Refuses to Release Data on Girls Excluded from Schooling, Ignites Controversy
The Ministry of Education in Turkey has faced criticism and sparked nationwide discussions after refusing to disclose data on girls excluded from schooling. The controversy began when the Minister of Education, Yusuf Tekin, stated during a live TV program on July 11 that girls’ schools could be opened because some families did not want to send their daughters to co-ed schools.
This statement received strong reactions from various sections of society and the opposition. In response, bianet, an independent news agency, formally requested the Ministry to provide the number of girls who were left out of schooling through the Presidency Communication Presidency’s platform, CİMER, on July 13.
However, the Ministry, in a response signed by Deputy Minister Petek Aşkar on July 27, stated that it was not considered appropriate to share this data with the applicant. The decision not to disclose the requested information or documents has only further fueled the ongoing discussions and public debate.
Many people found Minister Tekin’s suggestion of opening gender-segregated schools to cater to families who preferred separate education for their daughters unacceptable. However, political parties aligned with the government expressed support for such schools.
In light of the Ministry’s refusal to provide the requested data, bianet presented four unanswered questions regarding girls excluded from schooling:
1. What is the number of girls who have been left out of schooling from 2000 to 2022?
2. How many of the children unable to attend school are girls versus boys?
3. What are the age groups of these children who are excluded from schooling?
4. Have any legal actions been taken against families who do not send their children to school? If so, how many families are involved?
Unfortunately, the Ministry of Education has yet to respond to these crucial questions, leaving concerned parties and the public without the necessary information.
As this issue continues to draw attention and be a matter of concern, it is imperative for the Ministry of Education to address the public’s requests for transparency and accountability. The availability of accurate data and information is crucial in identifying the scale and reasons behind girls being left out of schooling, which will enable the implementation of effective solutions and policies.
The controversy surrounding the Minister’s remarks and the subsequent withholding of data highlight the importance of promoting equal and inclusive education for all children, irrespective of their gender. It also emphasizes the need for open and constructive conversations to address the concerns of families while ensuring that all children have access to quality education.
The Ministry of Education should recognize the significance of providing the requested information and take appropriate steps to foster transparency, understanding, and progress in addressing the issue of girls’ exclusion from school.
