Hitit University is deeply committed to integrating individuals with disabilities into society by providing a supportive, well-equipped educational environment that removes barriers to learning and fosters independence. Established in 2012, the Office for Students with Disabilities Coordination Unit leads these efforts, ensuring a safe, accessible, and inclusive campus for all students.
Barrier-Free Access to Campus Facilities
In line with the “Accessible University” vision, all new and renovated university buildings are designed according to universal accessibility standards. These include:
-
Accessible parking areas and entrances
-
Guiding paths and tactile paving
-
Audible and visual alert systems in elevators
-
Braille signage and tactile wayfinding tools
-
Accessible restrooms and corridors
Educational Accessibility
Customized educational arrangements are made for students with disabilities upon registration, following the University’s Directive for Students with Disabilities. Each academic unit has designated faculty representatives who organize individual guidance meetings, ensuring that the needs of each student are addressed promptly and effectively.
The Coordination Unit also develops social inclusion projects, organizes awareness events, and promotes university-community integration, helping students actively participate in both academic and extracurricular activities.
Support for Visually Impaired Students
Hitit University has partnerships with major accessibility organizations:
-
GETEM (Technology and Education Laboratory for the Visually Impaired) at Boğaziçi University — offering 24/7 online access to digital resources for visually impaired users via the University Library.
-
GEKOP (Common Platform for Libraries for the Visually Impaired) — providing additional free access to non-commercial digital materials.
The University Central Library also hosts a large Audio Book Archive and advanced EYE-PAL devices that convert printed materials into audio and digital formats, supporting independent learning for visually impaired students.
Recognition and Awards
Through its inclusive initiatives, Hitit University has been recognized by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) as one of the leading institutions in accessibility, earning multiple honors in the “Barrier-Free University Awards.”
-
Orange Flag (Physical Accessibility) – for the Sports Sciences Faculty and the Institute of Health Sciences.
-
Green Flag (Educational Accessibility) – awarded to the Sports Sciences Faculty, Institute of Health Sciences, and Alaca Avni Çelik Vocational School.
-
Barrier-Free Program Emblem – granted to the Food Technology Program of Alaca Avni Çelik Vocational School for its exemplary support for students with intellectual disabilities.
With these achievements, Hitit University continues to stand out as a model of inclusivity and accessibility in higher education.
