Is the Cleaning Problem in Schools Deliberate?

Recently, hygiene and cleanliness problems in schools in some cities have caused serious concern in society. The fact that parents are forced to clean the schools where their children are being educated reveals deep deficiencies in our education system and raises an important question:

Are these hygiene issues being deliberately created, or are they simply a result of negligence?

The root causes of the lack of cleanliness in schools may seem like insufficient cleaning staff or budget constraints on the surface. However, considering recent developments in the field of education, such as the "Turkey Century Education Model" and initiatives like ÇEDES, we cannot ignore the possibility of a larger mindset problem underlying these issues. When education is managed with a focus solely on academic achievement while neglecting the physical and mental well-being of students, hygiene problems become inevitable.

Neglect in such a vital area as hygiene directly endangers the health and safety of our children. Furthermore, the question remains whether these issues are deliberately created or simply a result of negligence. If this situation is part of a strategy to push families toward private schools, we are facing a much bigger problem. The shift toward private schools deepens inequality of opportunity and erodes the sense of justice in education.

Hygiene Problem: Lack of Personnel or a Mindset Issue?

Hygiene issues in schools cannot be explained simply by the lack of cleaning staff. The shortage of cleaning staff in public schools is indeed a problem, but at the core of this issue lies the fact that education is not seen as merely a "service," but as a structure that should support all aspects of children's development. When school administrations and educational policies fail to give proper importance to fundamental issues like hygiene, the problem becomes permanent.

The fact that parents are now compelled to clean the schools their children attend is a clear indication that public services are not being adequately provided. A school environment where cleanliness and hygiene are not maintained negatively affects not only children's physical health but also their learning processes and psychological well-being.

Shift to Private Schools and Inequality in Education

We all want our children to grow up in a clean, safe, and modern educational environment that adheres to the principles and reforms of Atatürk. However, when public schools fail to meet even the most basic needs, families are forced to turn to private schools. This shift greatly harms social equality of opportunity. When the right to education becomes a privilege based on financial means, it deeply wounds our understanding of equality and justice.

Families who turn to private schools ensure their children receive education in a more hygienic and secure environment, but this also turns education into a privilege that is accessible only to children of wealthy families. Education should be offered equally to all sections of society, not just to those who are economically well-off.

Reform in Education is Essential for a Secure Future

Ensuring that our children receive education in modern, scientific, and hygienic environments is not only the responsibility of families but also one of the greatest duties of the state. Therefore, addressing hygiene and cleanliness issues as soon as possible is a step toward restoring trust in the education system. Education is the future of a nation, and it is essential that this future is built on clean, healthy, and safe foundations.

When reforming the education system, the modernization of curricula or renovation of buildings should not be the only focus. Improving the physical conditions in which children can grow in a healthy environment must also be a priority. Raising hygiene standards will enhance the quality of education and will directly contribute positively to students' learning processes.

Conclusion

Education is the most important force in the advancement of a society. However, an educational environment where hygiene and basic needs are not met negatively impacts the physical and mental development of our children. Solving the hygiene problem in schools will not only strengthen the education system but also boost the trust we have in the country's future. Once equality, justice, and hygiene are ensured in education, the path will be clear for our children to grow into successful, healthy, and confident individuals.

18.09.2024

Sevim DALGIÇ GÜL / Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi