Quota Restrictions at Public Education Centers: Master Instructors Demand Job Security

Master instructors working at Public Education Centers affiliated with Türkiye’s Ministry of National Education (MEB) are calling for an end to the grievances caused by course-hour quotas and austerity measures. Despite continued demand for courses, restrictions on teaching hours are negatively affecting both educational activities and the livelihoods of thousands of instructors.

The trainees are ready, the instructors are ready, but quota restrictions stand in the way! Many courses that have reached the required number of participants and completed all necessary preparations cannot receive approval due to insufficient teaching-hour quotas, while others face interruptions. This situation also limits citizens’ access to vocational, artistic, and cultural education opportunities.

Master Instructors Struggle with Below-Minimum-Wage Income

Master instructors are paid only for the hours they actually teach. As quotas reduce their teaching hours, they suffer significant losses in income. Many are forced to make ends meet on earnings below the minimum wage, despite their work and professional responsibilities. Their financial difficulties become even more severe during periods when courses are not opened or educational activities are suspended.

The problem goes beyond income. Since social security contributions are calculated based on the hours instructors actually teach, completing the required contribution days for retirement becomes increasingly difficult. Being left without income during holiday periods further deepens their financial insecurity.

Responsibilities Without Employment Rights

Master instructors undertake significant responsibilities in carrying out their duties. However, they report difficulties accessing fundamental employment rights, including severance pay, leave entitlements, and job security, due to uncertainty surrounding their employment status. These educators, who work to ensure the continuity of educational activities, are demanding improved working conditions and stronger social protections.

Their demands are clear: Teaching-hour quotas must be abolished, employment rights must be improved, and a secure employment status must be established. A lasting solution is needed to ensure that citizens’ educational needs are met and that master instructors can perform their duties without constant concerns about making ends meet.

Addressing the grievances faced by master instructors is important not only for improving educators’ working conditions but also for ensuring the sustainability of non-formal education and protecting citizens’ access to educational opportunities.