Türkiye Introduces New Rules for Teachers and Schools

Teachers in Türkiye Required to Wear White Coats Under New School Rules

The Ministry of National Education has introduced new nationwide requirements for schools in Türkiye ahead of the new academic year, including rules on teacher clothing, school security, mobile phone use, homework, educational materials and graduation ceremonies.

Teachers to Wear White Coats

Under the new directive, teachers are required to wear white coats. The Ministry says the clothing requirements are intended to reflect the status and dignity of public service.

Provincial education authorities will monitor compliance with the new requirements, and conduct that violates the applicable regulations will not be permitted.

Enhanced Security Measures at Schools

The directive also introduces additional security measures following armed attacks at schools in the southern provinces of Kahramanmaraş and Şanlıurfa.

• Controlled entry points will be established at schools.
• Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be separated where necessary.
• Poorly lit and poorly visible areas of school grounds will receive additional lighting.

Earlier, Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi announced plans to recruit 30,000 security guards for schools across the country.

New Rules on Phones and Homework

The existing ban on using mobile phones during lessons remains in place.

Teachers will also be required to assign homework exclusively through the Ministry of National Education’s official digital platforms.

Restrictions on School Supplies and Textbooks

The Ministry has introduced measures aimed at protecting parents from rising education-related expenses.

Schools are prohibited from requiring expensive imported stationery or textbooks from third-party publishers. Domestic products should be given preference.

External examinations and tests that are not part of the Ministry of National Education’s official system are also completely prohibited.

New Rules for Graduation Ceremonies

Materials used during graduation ceremonies and commemorative events, including music and banners, must now receive approval from the relevant Materials Review and Selection Board.

School and teacher publications on social media must comply with professional educational ethics.

Graduation events must also be organized in a way that does not create additional financial costs for parents.

Why the New Rules Matter

Türkiye’s education system covers more than 19 million primary and secondary school students. The latest regulations reflect the authorities’ increased focus on school security, professional standards and controlling education-related expenses for families.

The new nationwide rules combine stricter school security measures with requirements for teacher clothing, digital homework, educational materials and graduation events.

Important: The new directive was issued ahead of the academic year, which is scheduled to begin on September 14, 2026.