YÖK Launches Official Investigation into 'Verse Banner' Controversy at Yeditepe University

Details of the Law Faculty Graduation Ceremony Incident On July 7, 2026, the graduation ceremony of the Yeditepe University Faculty of Law became a scene of tension among students. The incident began when a graduate named Mustafa Malu opened a banner on stage containing verse 112 of Surah Hud ('So stand firm as you are commanded'). [1][3] Images shared on social media show that another group of students tried to prevent the banner from being seen by standing in front of it. This action was met with applause from some attendees and protests from others, causing a tense atmosphere for several minutes. [2][4]

Council of Higher Education (YÖK) Enters the Case Following the widespread coverage of this incident in the media and social networks, the Council of Higher Education of Turkey (YÖK) announced the start of an investigation through an official statement. The statement noted that universities must be spaces for the peaceful coexistence of all viewpoints and beliefs. [1] YÖK explicitly stated that there will be no tolerance for violations of students' legal rights regarding freedom of expression, belief, and education. [2] The regulatory body emphasized that protecting the fundamental rights of students guaranteed under the Constitution is the main priority in this case, and special inspectors have been appointed for this matter. [1]

Yeditepe University Management Reaction and Defense of Institutional Reputation In response to allegations of an anti-Islamic approach, Yeditepe University issued a statement strongly rejecting these claims. The university management stated that since its founding, it has been loyal to national and spiritual values, and religious symbols are installed at the university's main entrances. [3] The statement explained that preliminary investigations show the tension was not due to the content of the verse, but rather due to personal disputes between students. [1][3] However, the university confirmed that an internal administrative inspection has been launched to examine the dimensions of the incident more closely and prevent similar cases in the future, aiming to review official ceremony protocols. [4]

Political and Social Echoes in Turkey This incident also drew sharp reactions at high political levels in Turkey. Ömer Çelik, spokesperson for the Justice and Development Party (AKP), criticized the behavior of the opponents in a message supporting the student who owned the banner and emphasized the need to respect spiritual truths. [4] On social media, heated debates emerged regarding the boundary between freedom of expression and secularism in private universities. Some users see this action as a sign of polarization in the educational community, while others emphasize the need to respect religious rituals in all spaces as part of citizenship rights. [2]