Western Thrace Turkish Teachers' Union issues message on Teachers' Day
The Western Thrace Turkish Teachers' Union issued a message on the occasion of November 24th, Teachers' Day.
The message from the Teachers' Union reads as follows:
"Happy Teachers' Day on November 24th!
We sincerely congratulate all dedicated teachers, especially the valued members of the Western Thrace Turkish Teachers' Union, on the occasion of November 24th, Teachers' Day.
When we, as a minority, were entrusted with this land under the Lausanne Treaty, our autonomy in education was guaranteed. However, over the years, especially after the military junta regime, the minority’s rights in education were gradually stripped through one-sided laws passed without consulting the minority. The education system’s special and autonomous nature has been eroded over time.
Today, our request for kindergartens that offer education in both Turkish and Greek is ignored. Schools are being closed one by one, citing a lack of students, without considering their special status.
Teachers currently serving are not given the opportunity to attend seminars aimed at improving their Turkish language skills, which are supported by Turkey. Teachers who have graduated from universities in Turkey are not allowed to work in our elementary schools. Despite the shortage of schools, permission to open new middle and high schools is being denied. Unfortunately, efforts to improve the quality of education in our schools are not desired, and state schools are being promoted instead.
As loyal Greek citizens, we believe that we do not deserve this injustice and we hope that the country’s leaders will correct this wrong.
Despite all these challenges, we celebrate November 24th, Teachers' Day. With these feelings, we respectfully and gratefully remember the Great Teacher Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all the teachers who have passed away. We once again wish all teachers a happy November 24th Teachers' Day and extend our respect and greetings.
Management Board of the Western Thrace Turkish Teachers' Union"
