Schools in Turkey Closed Due to Coronavirus
The coronavirus, which continues to spread worldwide, prompted high-level measures across Turkey after the first confirmed case. A coronavirus meeting held today at the Presidential Complex (Külliye) in Ankara lasted approximately five hours. During the meeting, important precautionary decisions affecting the country were taken. The meeting, chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, was attended by 16 ministers and other officials.
The meeting focused on measures to contain the outbreak and reduce transmission. Presidential spokesman İbrahim Kalın announced the decisions made at the end of the session, emphasizing that the nation will overcome this period together without falling into either complacency or panic. He expressed confidence that, with cooperation, Turkey has the capacity to manage the situation.
Decisions Taken at the Presidential Complex Meeting
At the meeting chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the following measures were decided:
- Sporting events will be held without spectators until the end of April 2020.
- From Monday, 16 March 2020, primary, middle and high schools will be closed. The mid-term break scheduled for April has been brought forward, and schools will be closed starting 16 March 2020 for one week.
- Universities will be closed for three weeks, beginning on Monday, 16 March 2020.
In addition, public servants will require permission for international travel.
The authorities stressed that these measures aim to slow the spread of the virus and protect public health. Citizens are urged to follow official guidance, maintain personal hygiene, avoid large gatherings, and cooperate with public health recommendations as the situation develops.