Teachers' Day in Turkey Date in the current year: November 24, 2024

Teachers' Day in Turkey has a long history. The basis for creation of this day was laid by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. After establishment of the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923 he started various reforms on military, cultural, economical and social platforms.

One of his reforms considered the use of the Latin alphabet rather than Arabic. When the reform came into effect, the new letters were taught to improve the ratio of literacy among community. National Schools were founded in Turkey on November 24, 1928 to teach people new alphabet. And Atatürk became the Head Teacher of the nation.

Anniversary of establishment of the National Schools is celebrated in Turkey as Teachers' Day since 1981. Every year President of Turkey and Prime Minister hold a special reception at Çankaya Presidential Palace in Ankara. Teachers from all provinces come to attend the reception.