A legislative proposal providing for the issuance of special-stamped passports to teachers working in private educational institutions has been submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. The regulation aims to allow teachers serving in private educational institutions affiliated with the Ministry of National Education to benefit from the "green passport" right under certain conditions.
According to the proposal, those who document that they have taught for a total of at least 10 years in one or more private educational institutions will be able to apply for a special-stamped passport. If the regulation is enacted, the scope will include private sector teachers who meet the requirement.
The special-stamped passport, known in the public as the green passport, provides its holders with visa-free travel to many countries. Under current practice, public officials, members of parliament, government members, mayors, certain public institution employees, exporters, company officials, and lawyers who meet specific conditions can benefit from this right.
RATIONALE FOR THE PROPOSAL
The rationale for the proposal emphasized that teaching is a profession with a public character, regardless of the institution where one works. It was stated that enabling teachers to examine education systems in different countries firsthand and participate in international projects and exchange programs would contribute to the educational process.
The rationale also stated that visa and passport costs constitute a significant burden for education workers who work for low wages. The 10-year service requirement was evaluated as "a reward for professional labor spread over many years."
According to Ministry of National Education data, 1 million 485 thousand teachers are employed in private educational institutions. However, there is no data available regarding how many of these teachers meet the 10-year or more service condition required by the proposal.
News Source: 12punto
