Ramadan school activities spark secularism debate in Turkey

"Since coming to power in 2002, the Justice and Development Party (AKP) has sought to reshape education around what it describes as 'national identity' and 'spiritual values.' Critics, including opposition parties, secular groups, and teachers' union, say the reforms have expanded the role of religion in public education."

"A key turning point came in 2012 with the so-called '4+4+4' reform, which restructured compulsory education and reopened imam hatip middle schools that had been closed in 1997 during a military intervention against an Islamist-led government. These schools combine the national curriculum with Islamic studies, originally to train future imams, but also prepare students for university and other careers."

"According to ministry statistics, the number of imam hatip middle schools increased from 1,099 in 2012-13 to 3,396 in 2024-25. The latest flashpoint is a directive issued by the Ministry of National Education on February 12, which outlines Ramadan-themed activities for schools nationwide."

Turkish education has become a political battleground over secularism and religion since the Justice and Development Party came to power in 2002. The government has pursued reforms emphasizing religious and spiritual values in public education, including reopening imam hatip schools that combine Islamic studies with national curriculum. A recent inspection incident in Izmir, where inspectors questioned students about religion classes and presidential criticism, sparked parliamentary controversy. The Ministry of National Education issued a directive encouraging Ramadan-themed activities and mosque visits in schools. Critics argue these policies have significantly expanded religion's role in public education, while government officials defend them as routine measures and identity-building initiatives.

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