EMPOWERED THROUGH MOVEMENT: SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN MEET SPORTS IN AN ACADEMIC SETTING

Organized in collaboration between the Anatolian Education and Culture Foundation (AKEV) and Istanbul Aydın University, the Academic Program for Children with Special Needs is taking place between June 30 and July 25, 2025, bringing together children with special needs in a vibrant university environment.

On Wednesdays, as part of the program, children participate in sports education sessions designed to support their physical development while providing an engaging and interactive learning atmosphere. The classes are led by Dr. Esra Emir, Dr. Gökçe Oktay, and Dr. Eda Gökçelik.

Each child is paired with a university student volunteer who offers one-on-one support, ensuring that participants are actively involved in the lessons. Both the academic staff and the volunteers work together to help children unlock their potential.

The program aims to enhance the social participation of children with special needs, introduce them to the university environment, and support their holistic development across various domains.