Munzur University Faculty of Health Sciences and the Tunceli Provincial Directorate of the Ministry of Family and Social Services jointly organized a panel titled "April 2 World Autism Awareness Day Program" at the Munzur University Congress and Culture Center on March 26, 2025.
The event was attended by Munzur University Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Muzaffer AŞKIN and Prof. Dr. Nuran CIKCIKOĞLU YILDIRIM, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Ülkü ÖZBEY, faculty deans, Tunceli Provincial Director of the Ministry of Family and Social Services Hüseyin OKAN, provincial protocol, representatives of relevant institutions, academic and administrative staff, and students.
Mr. Hüseyin OKAN, Provincial Director of the Ministry of Family and Social Services in Tunceli, delivered the opening speech, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about autism and drawing attention to the difficulties individuals with autism experience in communication and social interaction. OKAN stated that, as part of the day care center project planned by the Ministry, they aim to ensure the more active participation of individuals with autism in society through special education programs, therapy sessions, and social activities. He also expressed his belief that such projects will make a real difference in the lives of individuals with autism and stated that society needs to be more aware and sensitive on this issue.
Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Ülkü ÖZBEY stated that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition and that individuals exist with their differences. ÖZBEY pointed out that early diagnosis and scientifically based interventions are critical for the active participation of individuals with autism in social life, reminding families, educators, and health professionals of their responsibilities. Emphasizing that autism is not a deficiency but a form of existence that contributes to social diversity, he stated that awareness efforts must be sustainable.
Prof. Dr. Nuran CIKCIKOĞLU YILDIRIM, Vice Rector of Munzur University, touched upon the history of Autism Awareness Day, stressed the need to increase sensitivity to social diversity, and drew attention to social responsibility in this regard.
Following the opening speeches, the event continued with a panel discussion titled "Autism Spectrum Disorder: From Diagnosis to Intervention," moderated by Research Assistant Dr. Hakan COŞKUN from the Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences. The panel included:
Dr. Özge PARLAK GÖZÜKARA (Ministry of Health Tunceli State Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic) – The importance of early diagnosis and intervention in autism,
Dr. Gülsüm HOŞ (Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Child Development) – Developmental characteristics of children with autism,
Psychological Counselor and Guidance Counselor Hatice YALÇIN ALATAŞ (Ministry of Family and Social Services, Tunceli Provincial Directorate) – Experiences of families of children with autism,
Assoc. Prof. Kadri KINIK (Faculty Member, Social Services and Counseling Program, Hozat Vocational School) – Access to health services for individuals with autism, The panel concluded with a question-and-answer session.
This event not only contributed to raising awareness about autism but also provided a productive platform for sharing current developments and scientific approaches.
