Meaningful Awareness at Gölhisar MYO: They Felt the Obstacles with the "Empathy Course"

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University Gölhisar Vocational School, within the scope of December 3rd International Day of Persons with Disabilities, organized a meaningful event to raise social awareness and draw attention to the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

In the schoolyard, an event was organized with the slogan “Be Aware, Do Not Obstruct,” where a special "Empathy Track" was created for participants to empathize with visually impaired individuals. The program, coordinated by Lecturer Zübeyde Yılmaz, was attended by academic and administrative staff as well as a large number of students.

Feeling the Darkness and Overcoming Obstacles

Within the scope of the event, participants tried to complete the track prepared with the help of a cane while their eyes were closed. Participants, who tried to overcome obstacles such as boxes and cones encountered along the track, later experienced pouring water from a jug into a glass while blindfolded.

Participants personally experienced how actions that seem extremely simple in daily life can turn into a significant struggle without the ability to see. The event was an important simulation for understanding the physical and psychological challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in social life.

In the evaluations made at the end of the event, it was emphasized that physical arrangements alone are not sufficient for a barrier-free life, and the real change will begin in minds and hearts with the feeling of "empathy." The organization concluded with participants conveying the message "The biggest obstacle is lovelessness; we overcome obstacles with empathy."