Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation’s Vice Chair and EMU Disabled Students Unit Coordinator Assist. Prof. Dr. Ünal Değer released a stated on December 3rd – International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The statement by Assist. Prof. Dr. Değer reads as follows:
“December 3rd, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, is observed worldwide and in our country through various events aimed at promoting awareness. This year, the United Nations has highlighted the theme ‘Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress’, underscoring that ensuring full and equal participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of life is not only a matter of personal rights but also a cornerstone of societal advancement.
As the Disabled Students Unit, our priority is to establish an accessible campus environment that enables all students to participate equally in academic, social, and cultural activities. We strive to advance our initiatives in fields like strengthening physical accessibility, developing academic adaptations, generalizing guidance and support services. Promoting the empowerment of students with disabilities, removing barriers in society, and fostering an inclusive environment for everyone are key indicators of social progress. In this regard, we view every effort aimed at increasing accessibility and participation on our campus as an integral part of driving meaningful societal change.
December 3rd, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, is not just stands out as a day for raising awareness, it is also a call for taking firm steps in creating inclusive societies. On this meaningful day, our university, FizyoClub operating under the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation and the Disabled Students Unit organized an empathy-focused activity to deepen understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and to strengthen awareness of an inclusive community.
In observance of December 3rd - International Day of Persons with Disabilities, EMU Faculty of Health Sciences hosted ‘disability experience tracks’ giving students and university staff the chance to briefly encounter challenges related to accessibility, mobility, and communication barriers. We believe that such experiences foster greater awareness and encourage the development of more inclusive and empathetic behaviors. Promoting equality, accessibility, and inclusivity is a shared responsibility of our university, and together we aim to build a barrier-free future.”
