Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten, met with the OMU Disability Student Unit and academic department representatives to discuss the needs and inclusion of students with disabilities.

The meeting, held at the Atatürk Culture Center (ACC), was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meryem Vural Batık, Coordinator of the Disability Student Unit, along with academic unit representatives and students with disabilities.

During the meeting, participants engaged in discussions on ensuring that students with disabilities at OMU do not experience any form of discrimination throughout their education and that their challenges are effectively addressed. Additionally, plans were outlined to create more inclusive learning environments and promote active participation in social activities for students with disabilities.

"We Earned the 'Orange Flag' Award for Accessibility"

In his opening speech, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten emphasized OMU’s commitment to providing equal and full participation in education for all students. He stated:

"At Ondokuz Mayıs University, one of our primary goals is to ensure that every student has equal access to education. To achieve this, we have implemented various adjustments tailored to the needs of our students with disabilities. In 2018, we established the Disability Student Unit and have since carried out significant projects with contributions from our faculty members in the special education department. As a result of our efforts, we were awarded the 'Orange Flag' for Accessibility, demonstrating our progress in this area."

"We Will Expand Interpreter Support for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Individuals"

Prof. Dr. Kesten also highlighted planned improvements in physical accessibility across faculties and campus facilities. He added:

"We will introduce priority services for individuals with disabilities at the university hospital and increase interpreter support for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. These efforts are among the key steps we are planning to ensure the full participation of students with disabilities in university life. We believe this process is not just the responsibility of a specific unit or administration but a shared responsibility for all of us. We will continue working towards a more inclusive educational environment with our academic staff, administrative personnel, and students."