Education Policy Actions by the Ministry of National Education after the Earthquake Disaster on February 6, 2023 in Türkiye

Abstract

One of the largest earthquake disasters in Turkish history occurred on February 6, 2023. The earthquakes impacted ten provinces greatly, which increased its destructive effect. Immediately following the earthquakes, the Ministry of National Education (MoNE) began providing education services and humanitarian assistance. By utilizing its human resources and production capacity, the MoNE was able to mitigate the effects of the earthquakes. The purpose of this study is to assess the support provided by the MoNE to the continuation of education services after the earthquakes as well as assistance to the citizens affected by the disaster, taking into account the global frameworks. It was observed that MoNE institutions played a major role in providing humanitarian assistance in the earthquake area. MoNE has taken on the majority of the production and distribution of food, shelter, and heating. To ensure that education services are provided as quickly as possible, the MoNE has developed education areas and appointed teachers and psychological counselors. As education services were rapidly launched through tents, containers, and prefabricated schools; preparations were made for the transition to face-to-face education. Students were able to continue their education during the course of their treatment in hospital classes. The transfer for students who wish to study in other cities was facilitated and free boarding facilities were provided. Based on the guidelines for education in emergencies frameworks by INEE and UNESCO-IIEP, it may be concluded that the MoNE effectively implemented the suggested policies for the continuation of education, and utilized its experience in the Covid-19 outbreak in providing social assistance.