Atatürk University conducted a significant autism awareness conference, which was an addition to its initiatives to enhance social awareness. The scientific content and emotional impact of the "Autism Conference" conducted in the Prof. Dr. Kemal Bıyıkıoğlu Hall of the Cultural Center were highly regarded by the participants.

 Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, delivered a speech at the event. He emphasized that autism is not solely the responsibility of individuals, but also of the entire society. He stated, "We have significant responsibilities to ensure that individuals with autism achieve the status they deserve in social life." Universities ought to be pioneers in terms of their academic accomplishments and their social consciousness. The most significant indicator that we are cognizant of this responsibility is our gathering here today.

 Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kızıltunç moderated the conference, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hilal Özbek and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Cemal Adıgüzel served as conference administrators. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdullah Bozkurt and Dr. Mehmet Ali Donbaloğlu, both expert speakers in their respective fields, imparted their knowledge and experiences to the participants on a variety of subjects, including the diagnosis process of autism spectrum disorder, the significance of early intervention, educational approaches, and the challenges that families encounter.

 The conference, which was jointly organized by the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality, Atatürk University Disabled Application and Research Center (ATAENMER), and Erzurum City Council Disabled Assembly, was attended by a significant number of students and academics.

 The conference effectively achieved its objective of raising awareness and received full marks from the participants, emphasizing that autism is not merely a difference but also a richness.

 CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE – April 16, 2025