PRESS RELEASE

CoHE Files Criminal Complaint

August 7, 2025

Some media outlets and social media platforms have been sharing baseless and speculative claims that 400 academics have fake diplomas, which devalue our higher education institutions and distinguished scientists.

The Disinformation Combat Center (DMM) of the Presidency's Directorate of Communications has announced to the public that none of the individuals mentioned in these false claims have ever worked as academics at Turkish universities.

Nevertheless, such baseless allegations continue to be spread. Turkish higher education institutions and scientists are a source of pride for our country, and attempting to undermine trust in them is the greatest disservice that can be done to the future of our youth. We hereby inform the public that we will not tolerate the ongoing efforts to undermine and discredit the Council, Turkish universities, and our higher education system, which is the future of our students.

A criminal complaint has been filed today with the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against the individuals and institutions that have raised and continue to spread these baseless allegations. Criminal complaints will also be filed against those who continue to spread false news and posts.