Dilek Bozkurt/ Halkweb
As of January 1, 2026, families shocked by a radical change in the MEBBIS system started to react to the practice. A technical update implemented in the digital infrastructure of the Ministry of National Education, the phrase “Education can only be given to the 0-26 age range” appeared on the system screens, ending the education process of thousands of individuals with special needs who turned 27 with a single click. While voices from the autism community were raised, KEDİ (Acceptance, Equality, Inclusion, Employment) Autism Association published a press release.
In the statement made; ”As of January 1, 2026, a technical regulation made in the MEBBİS system of the Ministry of National Education led to a crisis that deeply affected thousands of adults with autism and their families in Turkey. The warning that appeared in the system, “Education can only be given to those between the ages of 0-26”, effectively eliminated the right to education for individuals with special needs aged 27 and above.”.
“Special Education is not an Expense Item”
Speaking to journalist Dilek Bozkurt, Serap Dikmen, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Kedi Autism Association, said: ‘The age limit should be abolished immediately. For years, we have been expressing it in every environment, at every opportunity, they listen, they agree, but they both do not implement it and sign the opposite decisions. Individuals with special needs should be provided with lifelong education opportunities according to their individual needs. Permanent solutions should be produced by holding effective meetings with NGOs working in the field. Special education should not be seen as an expense item. Structures should be established for families to receive psychological support. In particular, neurodevelopmental differences such as autism are not limited to childhood but last a lifetime, so the need for support continues throughout life. This is not just a budgetary issue, but a matter of basic human rights and social responsibility. Special education is not an area that can be postponed or saved”.
The Cat Autism Association also made a public statement on the issue.
“The age limit of 27 has left adults with autism without education”, the full statement reads as follows
As of January 1, 2026, a technical change in the Ministry of National Education's MEBBİS system led to a crisis that deeply affected thousands of adults with autism and their families in Turkey. The warning that appeared in the system, “Education can only be given to those between the ages of 0-26,” effectively eliminated the right to education for individuals with special needs aged 27 and above.
Pushing all over 27 individuals with special needs out of the system, this regulation will result in adults with autism being deprived of education and living a life of imprisonment at home with their families.
For many individuals with autism, rehabilitation centers are their only opportunity for socialization and exposure to the outside world. Cutting this service will completely isolate both the individuals and the families who care for them.
The right to education of persons with disabilities is guaranteed by law and international conventions. Article 42 of the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey is clear; no one shall be deprived of the right to education and learning.
In light of all these realities, the age limit in MEBBIS should be removed immediately.
However, sustainable support programs for adults with autism should be urgently established.
Lifelong support for autism is a must, but the right to education cannot be limited by age!