Since 1992, December 3 has been an important day supported by the United Nations, aimed at raising global awareness about disability. The main purpose of this special day is to make individuals with disabilities more visible in society, draw attention to the protection of their rights, and promote social equality. Known as 'International Day of Persons with Disabilities' until 2007, this day hosts various awareness activities each year with a different theme. The theme set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for December 3, 2024, is recorded as 'Empowering persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. Dünya Sağlık Örgütü
On December 3, 2024, within the scope of 'International Day of Persons with Disabilities,' Iğdır University organized a panel titled 'Accompany Life: Special Needs, Common Solutions.' The panel was moderated by Dr. Belkıs MUCA YİĞİT, an academic from the Technical Sciences Vocational School and the Director of the Biodiversity Application and Research Center. Speakers included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Said YILDIRIM, Director of ANLAŞMER; Ali DOKÇU, President of the Iğdır Branch of the White Crescent Association; and Special Education Teacher Serhat KAYA from Iğdır Special Education Vocational School. The first speaker, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Said YILDIRIM from the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology, and Director of ANLAŞMER, delivered a talk on 'Individuals with Special Needs and Social Sensitivity,' emphasizing the importance of social awareness. The second speaker, Dr. Belkıs MUCA YİĞİT, shared information about the projects and awareness activities she has been involved in during her tenure at Iğdır University under the theme 'Individuals with Special Needs and Awareness Activities.' The third speaker, Physiotherapist Ali DOKÇU, Iğdır Branch Representative of the White Crescent Association, summarized the associations and their activities for individuals with special needs in Iğdır under the theme 'Being an Individual with Special Needs in Iğdır.' He provided detailed information about the work of the White Crescent Association. The final speaker, Special Education Teacher Serhat KAYA from Iğdır Special Education Vocational School, shared his experiences in university education and professional life under the theme 'The Past, Present, and Future of University Education for Individuals with Special Needs.' Kaya expressed his desire to support the educational processes of individuals with special needs living in Iğdır and studying at Iğdır University.
During the panel, the microphone was also extended to the participants, and the work related to individuals with special needs within the mufti's office was discussed. It was stated that increasing collaborations with Iğdır University would play a significant role in addressing the deficiencies in this area.
The panel concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and well-wishes.
