Turkey ranks 64th among 77 countries in access to a computer for schoolwork: OECD

Duvar English

Turkish education minister signals reopening of schools in September or October

Turkey has ranked 64th out of 77 countries in access to a computer for schoolwork in a report released by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) regarding education in 2020 amid the global coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. 

Turkey reported its first coronavirus case early on March 11, which was followed by the country shutting schools and universities as part of its struggle against the virus.

On March 25, Turkish Education Minister Ziya Selçuk announced that schools will remain closed until April 30 due to coronavirus pandemic and will continue to offer remote learning from home for students during this time period.

However, he most recently signaled that schools across the country will "most likely" reopen in September or October.

The report highlighted that Turkey's ranking in the bottom end of the list reflects the lack of equal opportunities among students in the country. 

In terms of accessibility to a quiet place to study, Turkey ranked 49^th among the 77 countries.

According to the report, Turkey came in 70^th in terms of internet access for students, falling closer to the end of the report's list with countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines and the Dominican Republic, whereas Denmark, Finland and Estonia ranked among the top. 

Under 70 percent of children in Turkey had access to a computer, the report said.