Support for On-Campus Accessibility and Independent Mobility from EMU Unit for Students with Disabilities

The Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Unit for Students with Disabilities provided a white cane and organized training on its use to support a visually impaired student studying at the university in navigating the campus safely and independently. In the training delivered by Prof. Dr. Salih Çakmak, a faculty member at the EMU Faculty of Education, Department of Special Education, basic skills regarding the effective and safe use of the white cane were practically demonstrated.

Attended by representatives of the EMU Unit for Students with Disabilities and a student providing peer support, the training covered techniques for correctly holding the white cane, perceiving the environment, identifying obstacles, and moving forward with safe steps. The training aimed to support the visually impaired student's participation in campus life and independent mobility skills.

Expressing excitement about moving independently with the white cane, the student thanked Prof. Dr. Çakmak for conducting the training, expressing confidence that the self-assurance gained from using the white cane will allow for a more active role in social life.

“The White Cane is a Symbol of Independence and Freedom”

Thanking Prof. Dr. Çakmak for his contributions following the training, Assist. Prof. Dr. Ünal Değer, Coordinator of the EMU Unit for Students with Disabilities, emphasized that the white cane is an essential assistive device allowing visually impaired individuals to establish a safe connection with their environment, as well as a symbol of freedom.

Stating that the correct use of the white cane contributes to individuals safely perceiving their environment, developing their freedom of movement, and increasing their independence in daily life, Assist. Prof. Dr. Değer noted that the goal of the training was to support the visually impaired student to move around campus independently and safely.

Expressing that contributing to the development of independent mobility skills of another student is very valuable to them, Assist. Prof. Dr. Değer drew attention to the importance of social awareness in terms of creating accessible living spaces and ensuring the sustainability of such efforts. Assist. Prof. Dr. Değer expressed his hope to build an accessible living environment together.