The Turkish Military Schools Graduates' High Transition Rate to Civilian Occupations: A Historical Account

The Turkish PME system stands out for its unique origins, having developed independently from the civilian education system. Originating from the military, the modernization movements during the Ottoman period led to the establishment of military schools before modern civilian educational institutions. By the early 20th century, almost half of the education system was under military control. This historical context is crucial to understanding the current state of the Turkish PME system. Graduates of military schools often transitioned to civilian positions, maintaining a high level of preparedness for civilian life. This trend persists today, with military schools consistently delivering education of superior quality compared to the national average. Additionally, the alignment of military school curricula with the regulations of the Higher Education Council and Ministry of National Education has facilitated soldiers' transition to the civilian job market.

It's also worth noting that soldiers in combat roles face greater challenges in the civilian job market compared to those in technical and support branches. This paper will delve into the characteristics of the Turkish PME system as it relates to civilian job readiness, as well as the disparities in the civilian job market for soldiers in combat and support roles.