Disability is largely preventable

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Education, Department of Special Education chair, Assist. Prof. Dr. Cahit Nuri spoke in relation to "International Day of Persons with Disabilities" on 3rd December and said, "When the causes of disability are examined, most of them appear as preventable. The quality of life of people with special needs should be increased with social policies developed throughout the TRNC, and regulations that include protective-preventive practices in every area.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nuri reminded that 3rd December is the day for ensuring the legal rights of individuals with special needs, reintegrating them into society, and emphasized the importance of ensuring the rights of individuals with special needs at all levels of society, and drew attention to the raising of awareness of their welfare in all areas, including political, social, economic and cultural.

Emphasizing that the arrangements for community-based rehabilitation programs should be implemented urgently, as the correct example to create a common life culture together, Nuri said, “With the increase of awareness on special education across our island in recent years, many individuals with special needs want to benefit from public services”.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nuri noted that it is necessary to establish all of the legal arrangements for disabled and disadvantaged individuals, taking into account the fact that it is a constitutional right that individuals with disabilities can enjoy equal citizenship rights like all other individuals.

Emphasizing the importance of being aware of individuals with disabilities not just one day, but every day, Nuri went on to say, “What makes us who we are is not our arms, eyes and ears, but our heart. Let's remove the obstacles in our minds and hearts”.