Education Minister Yusuf Tekin Sets AGS Teacher‑Exam Schedule and Branches Imam Hatip Courses

Education Minister Yusuf Tekin addressed several national education issues. He confirmed that the Academy Entrance Exam (AGS) for teacher recruitment will be held, with quota and applicant numbers to be announced in September‑October 2026. Following the exam, candidates will undergo practical training at the new Teacher Academy before appointment.

Tekin also announced that imam‑hatip schools will have their vocational subjects organized into distinct branches in cooperation with the Higher Education Council (YÖK), adding programs such as sports, fine arts, sciences and foreign‑language tracks.

The Ministry reported the end of the 2025‑2026 school year, with approximately 19 million students receiving report cards and a new “Term‑End Culture, Art and Sports Week” planned. Over 184 million textbooks were distributed free of charge, a new uniform policy was introduced without extra cost to families, and environmental “Green Homeland” activities continued nationwide.

Amid ongoing teacher protests, Tekin reiterated that existing examination systems would not change and highlighted recent OECD praise for Turkey’s education progress. Teacher unions and local officials, however, criticized the government for insufficient responses to salary, contract and safety concerns, and for perceived market‑oriented education policies.

Overall, the announcements signal continued reforms in teacher recruitment, curriculum structuring for religious schools, and broader school‑year initiatives while facing sustained pressure from educators’ groups.