Solyalı: We're Obliged to Pursue Those Obtaining Diplomas Unfairly

Ürün Solyalı, in his assessment based on the ongoing investigations into the fake diploma scandal at the Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University (CHSSU), emphasized the importance of bolstering the courage of the police force and the judiciary.

As the CTP, Solyalı mentioned that they have repeatedly raised the issue of fake diplomas, highlighting that this situation began due to a complaint from the owner of the Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University, and if there had been no complaint, the Higher Education Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation and Coordination Council (YÖDAK), responsible for oversight, and the Ministry of National Education would not have been aware of the fake diploma corruption.

"This situation is not only detrimental to the institution in question but also damages the country's economy," said Solyalı. He stressed that the investigation into fake diplomas should remain confined to the Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University and that higher education needs to be brought back on the right track. Pointing to recent instances of corruption in the country, Solyalı noted that this situation also facilitates human trafficking.

Speaking about the Amnesty Law, Solyalı mentioned that in 2023, the Council of Ministers deported 1,700 individuals for involvement in crimes, with 617 of them having no residency permits, incurring a cost of 36 million TL to the state.

Referring to the request for amnesty for individuals living in the country illegally, including students and tourists, Solyalı stated that if a law is to be enacted, the number of people living without residency permits in the country must be known. According to figures provided by the Ministry of Labor, Solyalı stated that there are 10,000 undocumented workers in the country, adding that it is evident that nearly 50,000 people are living illegally in the country.

"We are duty-bound to pursue those who unfairly obtain diplomas," said Solyalı, emphasizing that they are not seeking to demolish higher education. Solyalı stated that YÖDAK is not adequately equipped to oversee higher education, mentioning that the infrastructure of YÖDAK is insufficient.

Regarding the cost of living, Solyalı mentioned that the data provided by the Statistical Institute does not reflect the truth and that errors are made in processing product prices during committee meetings.

Solyalı also mentioned that there is pressure for increased efforts regarding the working conditions of specialist soldiers within the Security Forces, with no response being provided.