Investigation Launched Against Turkish High School Principal Over Book Distribution
An investigation into a science high school’s principal has begun in Ordu, Turkey, after distributing books linked to a religious community.
Jamie Bailey
- 2023-12-28
- Updated 06:18 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - The Ordu Science High School in the Altınordu district has come under scrutiny following the decision of its principal, Turgay Türkmen, to distribute religious books to students. Reports claim that each student at the institution received three texts affiliated with the Işık Community at no cost. The move has prompted a public outcry and subsequent action from the local authorities. Turgay Türkmen is now the subject of an official inquiry for the distribution of the books in question.
Titles of the Contested Books
The books provided to the students included "Herkese Lazım Olan İman" authored by Hüseyin İlmi Işık, "İngiliz Casusunun İtirafları" by M. Sıddık Gümüş, and "Mızraklı İlmihal" published by the Konak Foundation. These materials were transported in boxes marked as memorial gifts for İsmail Hafız, Vasfiye Şimşirgil, and all deceased ancestors, a detail which points to the commemorative nature of the distribution.
Response by Ordu Governorship
The Ordu Governorship responded to the situation by initiating an investigation into Türkmen's actions. The investigation was launched as a direct response to the backlash from the community over concerns regarding the appropriateness of religious materials being distributed in an educational setting. The governorship's involvement indicates the seriousness with which the incident is regarded.
The incident has placed Ordu Science High School in the spotlight, raising questions about the role of educational entities in religious matters. As the investigation proceeds, further details surrounding the principal’s intentions and any potential implications for the educational institution are expected to come to light.