Principal changes school bell to 'Pilgrims in the Kaaba' hymn: 'Ramadan Circular' cited
While the school administration stated that the practice was implemented within the scope of the Ministry's 'Ramadan circular,' the bell was changed again following backlash.
12punto
In Kocaeli, the changing of a primary school's bell to the "Pilgrims in the Kaaba" hymn has drawn criticism. A parent confronted the principal in the schoolyard.
The decision by the administration of Çenesuyu Primary School in the Derince district of Kocaeli to change the recess bell to the hymn titled "Pilgrims in the Kaaba" has sparked debate.
A parent, who identified himself as the father of a 4th-grade student at the school, recorded his argument with school principal Cüneyt Dağ in the schoolyard using his mobile phone camera.
In the footage shared on social media, the parent reacted sharply to the principal regarding the change of the school bell to a religious hymn, stating, "You cannot make such a piece the bell sound! You are an educator; you cannot put children in such a situation. If that is the case, will you show the same sensitivity during the 12 Imams fast or other important days?"
Principal changes school bell to 'Pilgrims in the Kaaba' hymn:
— 12punto (@12puntocomtr) February 24, 2026
'Ramadan Circular' citedhttps://t.co/bSlyryzI3V pic.twitter.com/3kXuXLnQme