News

According to reports released in April 2026, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Department of Occupational Therapy of the School of Rehabilitation Sciences and the Children and Youth Rehabilitation and Empowerment Foundation.

Founded in 1999, the Youth Rehabilitation and Empowerment Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides timely rehabilitation services and support programs for children and adolescents with disabilities. Officially authorized by the Ministry of the Interior, the organization works to empower children, enhance their independence, and support their successful integration into society by helping them achieve their highest possible level of physical functioning and mobility.

In alignment with these objectives, the Department of Occupational Therapy is committed to improving the quality of life of individuals with disabilities, special needs, physical and mental limitations, and social or psychological challenges through the application of scientific knowledge and practical expertise. To support the achievement of the third of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, Good Health and Well-Being, the Department of Occupational Therapy has initiated a collaborative partnership with the Children and Youth Rehabilitation and Empowerment Foundation, a local health organization. Through this collaboration, the department has undertaken important initiatives aimed at promoting community health and well-being.

In accordance with the provisions of the signed MOU, the Department of Occupational Therapy has established a supervised fieldwork placement program to expand and strengthen these collaborative efforts. The program is conducted under the direct supervision of the department and provides students with valuable opportunities for professional training and community service.

Students participating in this fieldwork program are supervised by a faculty member and provide occupational therapy services to the target population through their presence at the center on a regular weekly basis.