22.05.2026 15:20
The Istanbul Bilgi University, whose operational permit was revoked by a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette, has been locked down. Students who were able to enter the campus protested the closure decision by marching.
Striking images have emerged from Istanbul Bilgi University, whose operating license was revoked following a decision published in the Official Gazette under the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Moments of the university's campus entrance gate being chained and locked were captured on a mobile phone camera.
The university, which was part of Can Holding seized by the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF), had its operating license revoked under Article 11 of Law No. 2547 on Higher Education.
BILGI UNIVERSITY'S GATE PADLOCKED
Following the decision, security measures at the campus entrance were increased. The moment a security guard locked the university gate with a chain was captured on mobile phone cameras by nearby citizens.
While the emerging footage quickly became a trending topic, students began gathering in front of the campus.
STUDENTS PROTESTED
As riot police units and TOMA water cannons were brought to the campus, the university's gate was also padlocked. In the images shared on social media, many students and graduates were seen being denied entry to the campus. Students who managed to enter protested the decision by marching inside the campus.
STATEMENT FROM THE COUNCIL OF HIGHER EDUCATION
The Council of Higher Education (YÖK) issued a written statement following the revocation of the university's operating license. The statement indicated that necessary measures would be taken promptly to ensure that students and academic staff are not disadvantaged.
YÖK also announced that a detailed briefing on the process would be provided in the coming days.