Closed by Erdoğan's decree: Bilgi University students describe their grievances

Istanbul Bilgi University's estimated 20,000 students were left in shock this morning when they learned that their school was no longer operating. In accordance with the decision published in the Official Gazette with the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the university's operating license was revoked pursuant to the additional 11th article of the Higher Education Law. Thus, the closure process for the institution, whose foundation was recently placed under trusteeship, has accelerated.

With the revocation of the operating license, the guarantor system will be activated to protect educational rights in accordance with the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) regulations. According to the statements made, Istanbul Bilgi University students will continue their academic processes within the structure of Mimar Sinan University, which holds state university status.

STUDENTS' UNCERTAINTY AND CONCERNS

Following the decision, students expressed their shock and anxiety on social media platforms. Hundreds of students, especially those on the verge of graduation and preparing for their final exams, are uneasy due to a lack of information regarding how the process will proceed.

A student studying in the psychology department, who stated that they were two weeks away from graduation, described the chaos they are experiencing with these words:

"The school I have attended for 5 years, earned my place in, paid tuition for, and put effort into, where I was going to graduate from in two weeks, was just closed. And we cannot reach the school. We don't know what we will do, where we will graduate from? We have no idea. I was looking at graduation dresses. Now, how will I take my exams, will I be able to graduate, where will I graduate from?"

Students are waiting for an explanation from the authorities regarding how academic procedures, especially exams and graduation, will be conducted. Unable to establish communication with the university administration, the students are demanding clear information from the guarantor university, Mimar Sinan University.

On the other hand, it is expected that the relevant institutions will determine a roadmap in a short time to prevent loss of rights and disruptions in educational processes following the closure decision.

News Source: 12punto