Transformation in International Cooperation of Turkish Schools; New Era of 'Sister Schools' Begins

In a strategic move, the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) has introduced a new framework for the implementation of the 'International Sister Schools' project. These changes, effective from June 2026, are designed to enhance the quality of cultural and educational exchanges and align school activities with the country's broader foreign policies [1]. According to the new circular, all application and approval stages for cooperation will henceforth be conducted through centralized digital systems.

Digitalization of Processes and Centralized Oversight One of the most significant changes in the new era is the elimination of paper-based bureaucracy and the migration of all stages to the Ministry of Education Information Management System (MEBBİS). Schools are required to register full project details, educational objectives, and the profiles of host or guest schools in this system before signing any memorandum of understanding [2]. This measure allows the Ministry to maintain closer supervision over educational content and student safety during exchange trips. Additionally, periodic progress reports must be uploaded online to ensure the continuity of cooperation.

Geographical and Strategic Priorities The new MEB directive places special emphasis on expanding relations with countries within Turkey's cultural sphere, Turkic republics, the Balkans, and neighboring countries [3]. While cooperation with schools worldwide remains possible, projects aimed at strengthening cultural ties in these specific regions will receive priority support and greater facilities. This approach reflects Turkey's strategic use of education as a tool to bolster public diplomacy in the region.

New Requirements for Administrators and Teaching Staff School principals now hold direct responsibility for overseeing the proper implementation of sister school protocols. Under the new regulations, each school is permitted to have only a limited number of active sister school agreements to prevent the formation of purely symbolic contracts [1]. Furthermore, teachers involved in these projects must complete short-term training courses in 'intercultural communication' and 'international protocols.' These measures ensure that students derive the maximum academic and cultural benefit from these interactions.

Future Outlook and Impact on Students With the implementation of this plan, the quality of joint scientific and cultural projects between Turkish schools and other countries is expected to increase significantly. The Ministry of National Education believes that standardizing these relationships will provide equal opportunities for schools in disadvantaged areas to connect with global educational networks [2]. This new era represents a major step toward the internationalization of the Turkish education system and the preparation of students for the global stage.