Altuğra: Headscarves Unacceptable in Schools, Regulations Not Open to Debate

Speaking on Kuzey Kıbrıs TV’s program “Kaptanın Günlüğü,” Altuğra underscored the importance of secular education, reminding that the people were raised in adherence to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s principles.

"We are people committed to Atatürk’s principles. This is how we were raised and educated, and our education system has been shaped accordingly. This will not change. We will uphold and defend Atatürk’s principles—there is no alternative interpretation," Altuğra stated.

She also noted that while religion is an integral part of society, it should not overshadow the principles of modern and enlightened education. "We are modern individuals, but our religion is also part of who we are. Anyone who claims Atatürk was against religion does not truly understand him," she remarked.

"Headscarves in Schools Are Unacceptable"

Addressing the recent discussions on students wearing headscarves in schools, Altuğra firmly stated that this practice violates disciplinary regulations.

"What does it mean for a girl under 18 to wear a headscarf to school? It is claimed that they choose to do so voluntarily. This is not true. We, as the people of Northern Cyprus, are modern individuals, and this is how we were raised. This is not part of our culture or way of life," she said.

Making it clear that she would not accept any deviation from existing rules, Altuğra concluded:

"The disciplinary regulations clearly define the uniform and dress code. No exceptions can be made. We will always defend the secular order, secular education, and the identity of our people as a secular society."