Turkish MPs pass student amnesty, academic reform bill
Turkish lawmakers late on July 30 approved legislation allowing thousands of former university students who were dismissed or left higher education to resume their studies, in what has widely been described as a “student amnesty.”
The 28-article bill, passed by parliament’s general assembly, enables individuals whose enrollment in preparatory, associate, undergraduate or graduate programs was terminated for various reasons to re-enroll at their universities.
Although commonly referred to as a student amnesty, the legislation goes beyond restoring enrollment rights. It also introduces reforms covering academic ethics, faculty employment and medical education.
Under the new law, eligible students whose education was interrupted due to financial hardship, health issues, family circumstances or other reasons will be able to apply for reinstatement within four months after the law enters into force.
