A conference was organized within the scope of World Autism Awareness Day through the
collaboration of Erzurum Technical University (ETU) Psychology Application and Research
Center (PUAM) and the Science Communication Office (BIO).
The event, held in the Conference Hall of the Faculty of Health Sciences, was attended by
ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Cakmak, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Naim Urkmez, Dean of the
Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Ayse Gürol, academics, individuals with special needs,
and their families.
In his opening speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Çakmak emphasized that increasing social
awareness about autism is not only an academic responsibility but also a social necessity. He
stated that such events strengthen empathy among individuals and contribute to the more
active participation of individuals with special needs in social life. Çakmak highlighted the
important role universities play in this regard and noted that studies in the fields of health
sciences and psychology will continue to be supported. He also underlined the importance of
awareness-focused activities in raising consciousness across all segments of society.
Following Rector Çakmak’s speech, the program continued with presentations by experts in
their fields. During the conference, Specialist Dr. Ozgür Esmeray provided evaluations on the
symptoms of autism and the diagnostic process, while Psychologist Gizem Keskin Yeğen
discussed the invisible burdens faced by families with autistic children. Associate Professor
Dr. Sümeyye Ulaş shared information on parent-child interaction therapy in autism, and
Nazan Yaşarbaş, President of the Palandöken Autism Association, gave a presentation on
autism awareness and the association’s activities.
The program, which was followed with great interest, concluded with a Q&A session where
participants directed their questions to the experts.
Corporate Communications and Promotion Directorate – 03.04.2026