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Turkish universities will address the government’s “terror-free Türkiye” goal in opening ceremonies and first lessons of the 2026-2027 academic year, under a directive issued by the Higher Education Board (YÖK).
In a letter signed by YÖK President Erol Özvar and sent to universities across the country, the board said Türkiye is undergoing an important process aimed at strengthening peace and security, national unity and social cohesion.
The directive followed YÖK’s Aug. 27 general assembly and highlighted the significance of the “terror-free Türkiye” goal. The board called on universities to contribute to the process through their scientific knowledge, research capacity and academic expertise.
It asked institutions to examine the initiative from social, economic, legal, political, cultural and security perspectives, drawing on contributions from different academic disciplines. Universities were also encouraged to conduct research and organize panels, conferences and workshops on the issue.
YÖK said incorporating the subject into opening ceremonies and first lessons would help raise students’ awareness of the initiative while contributing to a stronger environment of social peace and security, reinforcing national unity and supporting social integration.
The “terror-free Türkiye” initiative is a government-led process aimed at ending PKK terrorism in the country.
As part of the process, the PKK announced its dissolution and said it had laid down its arms.
YÖK said universities, beyond their roles in education, scientific research and publication, have a broader responsibility to contribute to social solidarity and common values. It urged institutions to show the necessary sensitivity in implementing the directive.
