The 1st OGEM Autism Symposium was organized in Samsun under the scope of the 2nd National Autism Action Plan, with the theme "Autism: From Diagnosis to Intervention."
The symposium, organized by Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Developmental Education Application and Research Center in cooperation with Samsun Governorship, Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, and Samsun Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services, was held at the Şehit Ömer Halisdemir Multipurpose Hall with participation from academics and educators to raise awareness, share knowledge, and strengthen solution-oriented policies related to autism.
In his opening speech, OMU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten emphasized that the symposium would be an essential opportunity to enhance awareness of autism, strengthen social sensitivity, and discuss the societal impacts of scientific studies in this field in greater depth.
“We must raise awareness about autism at every level of society”
Prof. Dr. Kesten stated that autism is not merely a subject limited to individual awareness but requires societal awareness, understanding, and inclusiveness. He said, "Such scientific events are very valuable as they serve to build this awareness and provide a means for viewing autism not only as a health and education issue but also as a tool to raise awareness among every segment of society and transform social attitudes."
Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten also expressed his belief that the symposium would contribute significantly by creating an environment where academic studies and social responsibility intersect and promoting equal rights and opportunities for all individuals in society.
Kemal Gümrükçü, Samsun Provincial Director of Family and Social Services, stated that the symposium is critical both academically and practically, expecting exemplary studies on autism to emerge from this event.
"Currently, various services are provided to 1,039 individuals with autism in Samsun"
Gümrükçü reminded attendees that the National Autism Action Plan covering the years 2023–2030, initiated by the Ministry of Family and Social Services, includes significant goals ranging from early diagnosis and intervention to education, health, and social services. "Efforts carried out in our province within these targets aim to improve the quality of life of individuals with autism and to support their families. Currently, various services are provided to 1,039 individuals with autism in Samsun. However, we are aware that there is much more work to be done and a long road ahead," he said.
Deputy Governor of Samsun, Şeref Aydın, stated that the 2nd National Autism Action Plan, led by the Ministry of Family and Social Services, lays the foundation for systematic and sustainable policies in this field across the country.
Eyüp Çakır, Head of the Health and Social Services Department of Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, and Dr. Emrah Gülboy, Director of OMU Developmental Education Application and Research Center, also delivered speeches at the symposium.
Following the opening remarks, presentations were given on various topics, including "Medical Diagnostic Process for Children with Autism" by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Miraç Barış Usta, "Educational Diagnostic Process for Children with Autism" by Hande Gülenç, and "Transformation in Autism with Positive Behavioral Support: Practices for Families and Children" by Prof. Dr. Dilek Erbaş and Prof. Dr. Şerife Yücesoy Özkan, along with Sude İkra Canlı, a psychology graduate diagnosed with autism.
The event also featured the opening of an exhibition titled "Colors of Autism," organized by the Metropolitan Municipality as part of the symposium.
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