Within the scope of the May 10–16 National Disabilities Week, an awareness march organized in Aksaray was held with the participation of hundreds of citizens. Drawing substantial public interest in the city center, the procession featured vibrant scenes. Organized through the collaborative efforts of the Aksaray Governorship, Aksaray Municipality, Aksaray University, the Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services, the Provincial Directorate of National Education, and various non-governmental organizations, the initiative aimed to enhance the visibility of individuals with disabilities in civic life and raise public consciousness regarding accessibility.

The march was attended by Prof. Dr. Alpay Arıbaş, Rector of Aksaray University; Yakup Kadri Perek, Deputy Mayor of Aksaray; vice rectors, provincial agency directors, representatives of non-governmental organizations, individuals with disabilities, academic staff, students, and numerous citizens. Commencing along Ebulfeyz Elçibey Avenue, the procession concluded in front of the Provincial Mufti's Office. Carrying banners and placards, participants championed the values of an accessible society, equal rights, and social solidarity through various slogans.

A prominent highlight of the event was the "Aksaray Bando 68" marching band. Delivering dynamic cadences, the ensemble brought remarkable energy to the procession and was accompanied by ASÜ students. Marching alongside individuals with disabilities, students carried thematic banners to bolster morale and underscore the significance of the commemorative week. Notably, students from the Department of Special Education and various other academic disciplines marched in solidarity with individuals with disabilities and their families, actively supporting awareness efforts. Throughout the event, university students engaged directly with members of the public, fostering broader social sensitivity.

Aksaray University's prominent role in the event reflected its strategic commitment to institutional social responsibility and community engagement. Serving as a practical field application of the inclusive education and accessible campus initiatives conducted within the university, the students' voluntary participation and civic awareness garnered widespread praise. Representatives of the university reaffirmed the critical importance of sustained advocacy and awareness efforts to ensure that individuals with disabilities are fully empowered across all spheres of social life.

Rector Arıbaş: "Aksaray University is an Accessible University"

Delivering an address following the march, Prof. Dr. Alpay Arıbaş, Rector of Aksaray University (ASÜ), stated: "On behalf of Aksaray University, we stand steadfastly alongside our peers with disabilities, committed to dismantling barriers to the best of our ability, and we will continue to do so. Owing to its distinguished track record in eliminating accessibility barriers, Aksaray University is recognized as an 'Accessible University' and is honored annually with pertinent institutional awards. Firmly believing that barrier-free initiatives originate from heightened consciousness, and wishing to see this awareness extended beyond campus boundaries to every segment of our municipal community, we have wholeheartedly supported this march. On this occasion, I extend my profound gratitude to all contributing institutions and agencies—including our Governorship, Municipality, provincial directorates, civil society organizations, and various associations—as well as the esteemed academic and administrative staff and students of our university, and I greet you all with the utmost respect."

"We Will Transform Aksaray into a Truly Accommodating City for Individuals with Special Needs"

Yakup Kadri Perek, Deputy Mayor of Aksaray, delivered the following remarks: "As the Municipality of Aksaray, we recognize that there is still much to accomplish for individuals with special needs; we consider our current progress merely a preliminary phase. We pledge our continued dedication to implementing even more comprehensive initiatives moving forward. It is our firm intention to make Aksaray a distinctively accommodating and livable city for our peers with special needs. Our prior achievements will serve as the blueprint and inspiration for future endeavors. We are immensely gratified to convene on this occasion, hope that this meaningful march marks a catalyst for further progress, and extend our sincere appreciation and warmest regards to all participants."

Bekir Kaya, President of the Aksaray Association of the Disabled, also expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders contributing to this impactful march organized during Disabilities Week, noting that the initiative would substantially elevate public awareness across Aksaray. Emphasizing values of unity, social cohesion, and mutual solidarity, the well-attended event concluded with a shared consensus that advocacy for disability rights must not remain confined to a single commemorative week, but must be sustained continuously throughout the year.