November 10, 2024, Nihat Işıklar, the coordinator of the International Human Rights Commission – IHRC in Turkey, visited the School of Life Without Barriers in Bursa. This meeting provided an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the institution’s activities, which are dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, as well as young people in difficult social situations.
The School of Life Without Barriers, established in 2013 in cooperation with the Bursa Provincial Administration, the Metropolitan Municipality, the Yıldırım District Office, and the Bursa Association for the Promotion of Music Culture and Solidarity with Musicians, is a unique place where individuals with Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, and autism can realise their dreams. The institution offers a range of training programmes, from workshops in the “Barrier-Free Kitchen” to classes in “Barrier-Free Arts and Crafts”. Thanks to these initiatives, students not only acquire professional skills but also improve their chances of future employment.
During the visit, Nihat Işıklar had the opportunity to see how students develop their artistic talents. Music classes, including piano, guitar, drums, and bağlama, as well as dance and theatre classes, play a key role in the lives of young participants. These activities not only strengthen their motor skills but also allow them to express themselves, which impacts their self-esteem and overall well-being.
One of the most important aspects of the school’s activities is the integration of students with disabilities with children of migrants and young people facing adaptation challenges. The institution provides support through various artistic courses that help students integrate better into their environment and also prepare the most talented individuals for entrance exams to art high schools. Nihat Işıklar emphasised that IHRC will strive to ensure continued support for this exceptional initiative, both through direct assistance and the organisation of international cooperation projects, which can contribute to the development of educational opportunities for people with disabilities.
During the meeting with Director Talip and his team, the challenges faced by the institution were discussed. As Director Talip noted: “Our main goal is to create a place where every child, regardless of their abilities, feels accepted and can develop their talents. It is important that our school is not only a place of learning but also a community that gives students a sense of belonging.”
Director Talip also pointed out the need for further international cooperation: “Our dreams are big, but we are aware that without international support it will be difficult to achieve all our goals. This is why cooperation with IHRC is so important for us – it gives us the opportunity not only to gain resources but also to build bridges that connect us with other countries and cultures.”
Nihat Işıklar’s commitment and his meetings with students, parents, and teaching staff are examples of actions that promote international cooperation for human rights, ensuring equal access to education and development. Işıklar added: “Visits like this are very important to me personally, as they show how much we can achieve by working together. Seeing the smiles on the faces of these children is the best proof that our actions are meaningful.”
The School of Life Without Barriers in Bursa is an excellent example of how education can go beyond traditional frameworks, becoming a true path to integration and empowerment for people with disabilities in society. IHRC will continue to support this and other similar initiatives to ensure that every person, regardless of their background or abilities, has the opportunity to develop and fulfil their dreams.
Reported:
Nihat Işıklar
IHRC Coordinator in Turkey
