Events for the disabled
Near East University organizes inclusive events and targeted activities to support individuals with disabilities and promote equal participation.These activities are complemented by ongoing mentoring, assistive services, and participation-oriented programs, demonstrating the university’s continuous commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities. Additionally, inclusive campus events brought together diverse and disadvantaged groups, supporting social integration and equal engagement.
AI-Driven Transformation Roadmap in Disability Services with the SDGs (9 February 2026)
In 2026, Near East University organized an event titled “AI-Driven Transformation Roadmap in Disability Services with the SDGs” in collaboration with the Turkish Cypriot Association of Orthopedically Disabled Persons. The event focused on improving accessibility and service delivery for individuals with disabilities through artificial intelligence and innovative technologies.
Topics included AI applications in rehabilitation, assistive technologies, speech and language therapy, and inclusive service design. A strategic roadmap was also presented, outlining key steps for integrating AI into disability services at national level.
13th TRNC Accessible Informatics Days (2026)
Near East University, in collaboration with Manisa Celal Bayar University, organized the 13th TRNC Accessible Informatics Days, bringing together representatives from the public sector, academia, industry, and civil society to promote accessibility and inclusion in digital environments.
The two-day event focused on accessible digital services, inclusive education practices, web accessibility, and assistive technologies, supporting the development of inclusive digital solutions.
The event strengthened multi-stakeholder collaboration and contributed to raising awareness on accessible and inclusive digital transformation in line with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Evidence:
https://neu.edu.tr/engelsiz-bilisimde-ortak-akil-ortak-gelecek/
5th Community Research and Development Symposium
Near East University contributed to the 5th Community Research and Development Symposium held on 19–20 November 2025 in collaboration with Girne University. The symposium brought together academics, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to address community development and sustainability challenges.
The event included dedicated panels on disability inclusion, women’s empowerment, and social equality, promoting inclusive participation and interdisciplinary dialogue within the SDG framework. Discussions focused on accessibility, quality of life, and community-based solutions, reinforcing the university’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
Evidence:
https://sustainability.neu.edu.tr/5th-community-research-and-development-symposium/
Students Visit Independent Living Home on World Disability Day (2025)
On the occasion of World Disability Day, students from Near East University visited the Lefkoşa 18+ Independent Living Home in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. During the visit, students engaged with residents and provided personal care activities aimed at enhancing self-confidence and well-being.
The event promoted social inclusion, empathy, and meaningful interaction, highlighting the importance of community-based support for individuals with disabilities and their active participation in society.
Evidence:
https://sustainability.neu.edu.tr/students-visit-independent-living-home-on-world-disability-day/
Disability Rights Monitoring Workshop (2025)
Near East University organized the Disability Rights Monitoring Workshop on 5 December 2025 in collaboration with the Center for Community Research and Development, the Disability Rights Monitoring Committee, and the Nicosia Turkish Municipality. The workshop brought together public institutions, NGOs, and academic experts to address key challenges related to disability rights and inclusion.
Discussions focused on accessibility of public services, inclusive education, healthcare and rehabilitation access, and employment barriers. The event promoted multi-stakeholder dialogue and contributed to raising awareness and developing solutions to improve the quality of life and equal participation of individuals with disabilities.
Evidence:
https://sustainability.neu.edu.tr/disability-rights-monitoring-workshop-2025/
Monthly Film Screenings at the Accessible Cinema Hall (Since 2025)
Since 2025, Near East University has been organizing regular monthly film screenings at its Accessible Cinema and Activity Center, providing inclusive cultural experiences for individuals with disabilities. The screenings are designed to ensure equal participation through accessible facilities and supportive environments.
This ongoing initiative promotes social inclusion, cultural engagement, and equal access to arts and entertainment, reinforcing the university’s commitment to inclusive campus life and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
In line with its mission to promote inclusivity and social awareness, Near East University regularly organizes many events that focus on empowering individuals with disabilities, celebrating their talents, advocating for their rights, and raising public awareness. These events, held throughout the academic year, foster a sense of belonging and community engagement and provide platforms for dialogue, education, and inspiration. Each initiative reinforces the university’s dedication to building an inclusive campus where all voices are heard and valued, from cultural festivals and film screenings to academic workshops and awareness campaigns.
Barrier-free Cinema Festival
The first film screening of the “Barrier-free Cinema Festival” organized by the Near East University Faculty of Communication at the Barrier-free Cinema and Activity Center was held with great excitement. The first guests of the Festival, organized in collaboration with Telsim, Algım Special Education Center students, watched the film “Maya the Bee.”
The Disability Rights Monitoring Workshop
The Disability Rights Monitoring Workshop at Near East University:
At the workshop held on December 9, 2024, with the theme of "Voice of Students: Disability Awareness on Campus", disabled students İnci Genç, Ayten Büşra Kaya, Abdulkerim Göktuğ, and Umutcan Yeşer, who are studying at Near East University, emphasized:
“Let’s be aware of obstacles not just one day, but every day.”
In order to draw attention to the rights of disabled individuals and seek solutions to the difficulties they face, the “Disability Rights Monitoring Workshop” held at Near East University on “December 3, World Disability Day” was held with intense participation.
The Groundbreaking Summit in Digital Equality
The 12th “Barrier-Free Informatics Days”, organized on December 23, 2024, with the cooperation of Near East University, TRNC Presidential Disabled Persons Commission, Manisa Celal Bayar University, TRNC Barrier-Free Informatics Platform and Turkey Barrier-Free Informatics Platform, brought together experts who aim to eliminate barriers in the digital world.
A meaningful visit to the Nicosia Special Education Foundation (ÖZEV) on December 3rd, World Disabled Day
Near East University Hair Care and Beauty Services Department academic staff and students visited the Nicosia Special Education Foundation (ÖZEV) on December 3rd, World Disability Day. Celebrated every year with various events around the world, “December 3rd World Disability Day” aims to raise social awareness by emphasizing the place and rights of disabled individuals in society. Near East University Hair Care and Beauty Services Department academic staff and students also visited the Nicosia Special Education and Rehabilitation Center (ÖZEV) to raise awareness.
