Maviş: The Goal is an Educational System that Promotes Friendship Between Both Communities

Maviş discussed interventions in Northern Cyprus’ cultural and educational policies, the union’s stance, and the importance of cooperation and social solidarity.

"KTÖS Principles: Autonomy, Secularism, and Democracy"

Maviş highlighted KTÖS’s core principles of protecting the autonomy of Turkish Cypriot institutions, defending secularism, and promoting democratic values in education.

"Social Resistance Against Interference in Turkish Cypriot Identity"

Maviş underscored the ongoing social struggle against efforts by Turkey’s AKP government to align Turkish Cypriot identity with Ankara’s conservative ideology through modifications in education and culture.

"Collaboration with Civil Society Against Homogenization Efforts"

He noted these interventions are part of a broader strategy to homogenize Turkish Cypriots and marginalize political diversity, saying that KTÖS has organized protests in collaboration with civil society groups to counter these pressures.

"Preserving Education as a Space for Pluralism and Critical Thinking"

KTÖS aims to protect education as a space promoting critical thinking, equality, and respect for cultural diversity. Maviş referred to recent crises over school textbooks and KTÖS’s use of inclusive language to combat conservative interventions.

"A Message of Solidarity to South Cyprus"

Maviş emphasized the importance of this resistance resonating within the Greek Cypriot community, noting that as long as the education system in South Cyprus remains nationalistic and conservative, it provides an excuse for similar ideologies in the north.

"A Peaceful Educational Approach Encouraging Cooperation"

Maviş advocated for an educational system that promotes cooperation between the communities and aligns with European Union and universal democratic values, essential for a future where both societies can coexist peacefully without extremism.