Unity for an Accessible Tomorrow: IGU Visits Bakırköy Barrier-Free Living Center on December 3, International Day of Persons with Disabilities

As part of the December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Istanbul Gelisim University participated in the program held at Bakırköy Municipality’s Barrier-Free Living Center, marking a day full of awareness. The event began with a speech by Asst. Prof. Abdullah Yüksel Barut, Director of the Istanbul Gelisim University Vocational School of Health Services. Bakırköy Mayor Assoc. Prof. Ayşegül Ovalıoğlu, in her speech, emphasized unity with the words, “Towards accessible tomorrows in the light of solidarity and equal citizenship,” and expressed her gratitude to Istanbul Gelisim University for their support.

“Persons with Disabilities Are Equal and Valuable Members of Our Society”

Speaking at the December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities event, Asst. Prof. Abdullah Yüksel Barut, Director of the IGU Vocational School of Health Services, highlighted the importance of awareness by stating: “Persons with disabilities are equal and valuable members of our society; it is our shared responsibility to make their lives easier.” Bakırköy Mayor Assoc.

Prof. Ayşegül Ovalıoğlu also reiterated in her speech, “Towards accessible tomorrows in the light of solidarity and equal citizenship,” emphasizing unity and extending her thanks to Istanbul Gelisim University for their support.

A Program Enriched with Music Performances, Empathy Tracks, and Exhibitions

Following the opening remarks, the program continued with an exhibition prepared by special students, an empathy track, an awareness activity using emotion cards, and team games such as “Ring Toss.” Participants were also offered unique experiences through a communication activity where they attempted to interact while wearing headphones that blocked external sounds.

A concert performed jointly by the IGU Music Club and special students added great energy to the event, while a meaningful sign language video prepared with the support of IGU SHMYO Disability Commission members Lecturer Rahmiye Nur Aktaş and Lecturer Aleyna Çavdar delivered emotional moments to the audience.

A Collaborative Event with Broad Participation

The event was organized through the partnership of the IGU Vocational School of Health Services Digital Health Systems Technician Program led by Lecturer Ebru Cengiz, the IGU SHMYO Disability Commission, the IGU Faculty of Health Sciences Health Management Department, and the Bakırköy Municipality Health Affairs Unit, and saw strong participation.
Attendees included: Asst. Prof. Abdullah Yüksel Barut, Director of IGU Vocational School of Health Services, Asst. Prof. Nurcihan Tan Erkoç, Assistant Director of IGU Vocational School of Health Services, Lecturer Ebru Cengiz, Digital Health Systems Technician Program, Lecturer Rabia Nur Aktan Yılmaz, Chair of the IGU SHMYO Disability Commission, Commission members Lecturer Aleyna Çavdar, Lecturer Murat Kara, IGU academic staff Asst. Prof. Aslı Kaya, Asst. Prof. Güneş Yücel Atalay, students from the Digital Health Systems Technician and Audiometry programs

A Strong Message from IGU for an Inclusive Future

Istanbul Gelisim University continues to take responsibility in promoting accessibility and social equality. On this meaningful day, the university once again underlined the importance of university–local government cooperation and awareness initiatives. In addition to offering high-quality education to its students, IGU remains committed to advocating for equal living rights for all individuals and continues to take an active role in social awareness projects.