University Management; Justice Beyond Power in Turkey's Academic Institutions

Today, July 13, 2026, the Turkish academic community faces a bitter reality that once again proves the truth of the claim: "Managing a university is possible not by relying on power, but only through justice." The publication of the Turkish University Satisfaction Survey (TÜMA 2026) results indicates a free fall for prestigious educational institutions that were once symbols of quality [1].

Management Failure in Academic Hubs The 2026 survey results show that for the first time in recent years, none of the universities in the city of Eskişehir (such as Anadolu and Osmangazi Universities) are among the top 10 in student satisfaction. This heavy failure is directly attributed to university management, including Professor Yusuf Adıgüzel, the Rector of Anadolu University [1]. Critics believe that focusing on the exercise of administrative and political power instead of prioritizing academic needs and justice in resource distribution is the main factor behind this historic regression. The city of Eskişehir, which was always known as the "Student City," is now facing a brand image crisis.

Justice vs. Pressure; Controversy at Yeditepe University Simultaneous with the efficiency crisis, the issue of individual freedoms and justice in dealing with students has returned to the headlines. In recent days, the controversy surrounding the prevention of displaying a banner containing Quranic verses at the Yeditepe University graduation ceremony has led to the intervention of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) and the start of official investigations [3]. Although the university management has issued statements emphasizing its commitment to freedom of thought, the entry of state regulatory bodies indicates a deep tension between central power and academic independence [2]. These incidents show that when justice in dealing with different tastes and beliefs is sacrificed for power-oriented expediency, the legitimacy of university management is called into question.

Legacy of Interventions and Necessity of Reforms The roots of many of these challenges can be traced back to the centralization policies of recent years. The sudden revocation of Bilgi University's operating license in May 2026 and its subsequent return after widespread protests is an example of the unstable environment in which universities operate [4]. Educational experts believe that as long as the appointment of rectors and senior managers is based on political loyalty rather than scientific merit and justice-oriented principles, no improvement in educational quality can be expected.

Ultimately, what we are witnessing in July 2026 is a loud cry from the academic body for a return to the fundamental principles of professional ethics. The successful management of a scientific institution requires creating an environment where every individual is judged based on their capabilities and where the law prevails over personal will. Undoubtedly, power can create an appearance of order, but only justice can restore dynamism and satisfaction to scientific environments.