Koç University Resists Temporary Contracting

Koç University Administration laid off 161 workers who were under a temporary contract of ISS Ltd. Academicians and students have been protesting along with workers since last night.

On Monday, Koç University workers, along with students and academicians, have also protested temporary contract working, demanding permanent contacts.

Fired before contract end

Following the Monday protests, during their shuttle ride back home on Tuesday, 161 were informed that their contracts have been cancelled. Workers' temporary contract was originally due May 14.

On the contrary of contractor firm's demands to discuss the matter at company headquarters, laid off workers left their shuttles and headed back to Koç University to join academicians and students.

Protestor group marched towards university main gate with slogans. However, the campus security did not grant their access on the ground that it was past official work hours.

Negotiations yield no results 

Around the same time, Ümran İnan, university president, sent out an email, announcinga new contract signed between a new contractor firm and university administration - a statement that confirmed that new contracted workers will be hired.

Following the statement, workers, students and academicians have stayed overnight and protested on campus. Protestors have been searching for the new contracted workers.

Negotiations between university administration and academicians yielded no results with president insisting on their decision. (NV)