Munzur University faces Erasmus program fraud allegations

Allegations of a systematic fraud scheme involving the Erasmus program have emerged at Munzur University in Tunceli, Turkey. It is claimed that for approximately six years, staff members used forged stamps, signatures, and invitation letters to facilitate trips to the Netherlands.

Reports suggest that a mechanical engineer at the university, Uğur Yıldız, has been producing fraudulent documents on behalf of a Dutch company since 2020. These documents were allegedly used to manipulate the merit-based scoring system used to select personnel for international mobility. In the most recent instance, approximately 20 academic and administrative staff members were reportedly sent to Rotterdam.

The scheme allegedly resulted in thousands of euros in public losses, as the state covered travel expenses and daily allowances for these unauthorized trips. Furthermore, the forged documents were reportedly used to obtain official “Grey Passports” (service passports) for the involved individuals.

Munzur University Rector Prof. Dr. Kenan Peker has ordered the preparation of a complete list of all personnel sent abroad since his term began in 2023. The university administration stated that an investigation is underway and legal proceedings will be initiated if the allegations are confirmed.