The Unit for Disadvantaged Groups at Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) was established as a sub-unit of the Department of Health, Culture and Sports, in line with the Law No. 5378 on People with Disabilities, the Regulation on the Advisory and Coordination Board for the Disabled in Higher Education Institutions published by the Council of Higher Education, and the Directive of the Unit for Disadvantaged Groups, adopted by the University Senate on June 24, 2025 (Decision No. 356-30).
The unit operates under the supervision of the Vice Rector responsible for education and training and coordinates with all other departments and academic advisors for disadvantaged groups across the university.
Main Duties
- Identify disadvantaged students during registration and ensure equal access to services throughout their education.
- Adapt learning environments, provide assistive tools, prepare special learning materials, and ensure accessible education, research, and accommodation opportunities.
- Publish informative materials for students and faculty, raise awareness about disabilities, provide consultancy, and organize in-service training when necessary.
- Develop awareness programs, seminars, and projects for students and academic/administrative staff.
- Provide secretarial support among academic units and adopt the Accessibility Guide of the Ministry of Family and Social Services as a reference.
- Create a website enabling students to report needs and issues.
- Organize activities and documents promoting positive and tolerant attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
- Prepare and implement the unit’s annual program, budget, and activity report for submission to the Rectorate.
- Ensure fair assessment and provide exam accommodations such as extra time, readers, or appropriate materials.
- Provide career guidance and employment-related information to students with disabilities.
- Ensure that university campuses and facilities are fully accessible and monitor infrastructure improvements.
- Integrate the activities of the unit with the University’s Quality Management System.
- Plan social, cultural, artistic, and sports activities to support inclusion of disadvantaged students in campus life.
- Encourage disadvantaged students to participate in student clubs and academic activities for personal development.
- Record and report all activities and operations of the unit.
Annual Reports
Psychological Counseling and Guidance Unit
The Psychological Counseling and Guidance Unit at KTU aims to support the mental, emotional, and social well-being of students and staff and to help them cope with difficulties. The unit provides preventive, supportive, and, when necessary, intervention-based psychological services. In 2024, psychological counseling and guidance services were provided to 202 students.
Main services offered include:
- Individual and group counseling,
- Guidance for academic, social, and emotional development,
- Psychological assessment tools and referrals,
- Adaptation support and seminars.
These services are free of charge for all students and staff and are available on weekdays. (Psychological Counseling and Guidance Unit)
