SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries
SDG 10.3. International students from developing countries
SDG 10.4 Proportion of students with disabilities
SDG 10.6.1. Non-discriminatory admissions policy
Istanbul Okan University strictly adheres to the public rules and regulations in all activities. The university adheres to Article 7 of the National Student Selection and Placement Centre Regulations, which guarantees impartiality, reliability, confidentiality, and equal opportunity for all.
To view the National Student Selection and Placement Centre Regulation, please click here.
Article 10 of the Turkish Constitution mandates that all Turkish laws and regulations must be applied without discrimination, in addition to the National Student Selection and Placement Centre Regulations. Regardless of language, race, colour, gender, political opinion, philosophical belief, religion, sect, or any other basis, all individuals are equal before the law.
Disabled Student Unit
The primary aim of the Disabled Student Unit is to provide equal opportunities for students with special needs to pursue their academic studies and education by offering solutions and practices suitable for their health and physical conditions, based on the principle of equal opportunities in education.
With the guidance of the Disabled Student Unit, students with disabilities receive all kinds of health, social, psychological, and academic support. The information and meetings of students who wish to benefit from these support services are conducted in accordance with the principle of confidentiality.
The Disabled Student Unit aims to improve the quality of life and education for students by making recommendations on organizing educational programs and environments, providing appropriate tools and equipment, preparing special course materials, and arranging physical conditions. It also strives to minimize the daily challenges encountered by students on campus.
Within the scope of this mission, the unit prepares informative documents for faculty members, explaining disabilities, the limitations they may impose, and the necessary adjustments to be made, thereby raising awareness and enhancing understanding. Additionally, it offers consultancy services and provides in-service training when necessary. Organizing seminars, conferences, congresses, and similar activities, as well as cooperating with other universities to conduct joint studies, are also part of the unit's efforts to increase awareness and knowledge.
The unit also provides guidance and information to ensure that disabled students can benefit from equal learning and assessment opportunities in education. It offers recommendations on exam arrangements, such as extra time, venue, materials, and assistants, to ensure fair examination conditions for students with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Directive for Students with Special Needs
The Directive regulates and covers the procedures and principles aimed at eliminating the disadvantages faced by students with special needs registered at Istanbul Okan University and ensuring their equal participation in academic, social, and cultural environments within the University. To read the directive click here
SDG 10.6.2. Access to university track underrepresented groups applications
Istanbul Okan University is dedicated to the monitoring of under-represented groups within its student and staff populations. The university is able to implement targeted diversity and inclusion programs by utilising this exhaustive tracking system to identify and monitor a variety of under-represented individuals. The university is able to establish informed policies and initiatives that guarantee an equitable and inclusive environment for all individuals as a result of the insights obtained from this monitoring system. The tables below provide access to data regarding the under-represented categories that Istanbul Okan University monitors.
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SDG 10.6.3. Access to university underrepresented groups recruit
The recruitment of under-represented groups at Istanbul Okan University is governed by the following policies:
In accordance with Article 10 of the Turkish Constitution, employers are required to employ a minimum of 3% of individuals with disabilities and 2% of ex-convicts of the total number of employees. In addition, the university's Institutional Strategic Plan features initiatives that are designed to enhance the recruitment and engagement of under-represented groups, including international students and staff, women, and individuals with disabilities.
SDG 10.6.4. Anti-discrimination policy
Istanbul Okan University has an anti-discrimination policy aimed at promoting equality and preventing discrimination based on various factors, including race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and religion. The university is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all students and staff, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities and is treated with respect.
Constitution of the Republic of Turkey:
Article 10: This article guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on any grounds, including race, gender, disability, and religion. It establishes the foundation for equality and non-discrimination principles that guide university policies.
Law on the Equality of Women and Men (No. 6284):
This law aims to eliminate discrimination against women and promote gender equality in all areas of life, including education. It serves as a legal framework supporting the university’s commitment to gender equality.
Law on Persons with Disabilities (No. 5378):
This legislation mandates the protection of the rights of individuals with disabilities and requires public and private institutions, including universities, to ensure accessibility and prevent discrimination.
Turkish Penal Code:
Articles related to hate crimes and discrimination provide a legal basis for addressing and penalizing discriminatory practices and behaviors within educational institutions.
Higher Education Law (No. 2547):
This law outlines the principles of higher education in Turkey, emphasizing the importance of providing equal opportunities for all students regardless of their background.
International Human Rights Instruments:
Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Article 1 emphasizes the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family.
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW): Affirms the rights of women and the need for equality in education.
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Highlights the necessity for equal opportunities and non-discrimination for individuals with disabilities.
SDG 10.6.5 University diversity officer
Istanbul Okan University has a Diversity and Equality Committee that is responsible for advising the administration on policies, programs, and training related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and human rights on campus. This committee plays a key role in promoting an inclusive environment and ensuring that all members of the university community are treated with respect and dignity.
SDG 10.6.6. Support for underrepresented groups
Istanbul Okan University provides mentoring, counseling, and peer support programs aimed at supporting students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented groups. These programs are designed to promote inclusivity and offer resources and guidance to ensure that all members of the university community have access to the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
SDG 10.6.7. Accessible facilities
Istanbul Okan University provides accessible facilities for people with disabilities. The university is committed to ensuring that all students, staff, and visitors have access to its facilities and resources. This includes features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, as well as support services for students with disabilities to enhance their educational experience.
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SDG 10.6.8. Disability support services
Istanbul Okan University provides support services for people with disabilities, including personal assistants and interpreters. These services are designed to assist students with disabilities in navigating their academic and campus life, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to succeed in their studies and fully participate in university activities. The university is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all students.
SDG 10.6.9. Disability access scheme
Istanbul Okan University has access schemes for people with disabilities. These schemes are designed to facilitate access to educational resources, campus facilities, and support services, ensuring that students with disabilities can fully participate in university life. The university aims to remove barriers and promote inclusivity for all members of the community.
SDG 10.6.10. Disability accommodation policy
Istanbul Okan University has a reasonable accommodation policy in place to support students with disabilities. This policy includes provisions for making necessary adjustments and accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access educational opportunities and campus facilities effectively. The university allocates adequate resources to implement this policy, ensuring that necessary support mechanisms are funded and available for those who require them. Check Article 6 of Scholarhip Directive.
SDG 10.6.11. Anti-harassment policy
Istanbul Okan University has an anti-harassment policy aimed at preventing and addressing harassment within the university community. This policy is designed to protect students, staff, and faculty from all forms of harassment, promoting a safe and respectful environment for everyone. The university takes such matters seriously and provides mechanisms for reporting and addressing incidents of harassment.
Constitution of the Republic of Turkey:
Article 10: This article guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination, forming a legal foundation for protecting individuals from harassment based on gender, race, religion, or other characteristics.
Turkish Penal Code:
Articles on Harassment and Threats: These articles criminalize various forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, and establish legal consequences for such actions, reinforcing the university's commitment to maintaining a safe environment.
Law on the Prevention of Violence Against Women (No. 6284):
This law addresses violence and harassment against women, providing a framework for the protection of women's rights and promoting measures to prevent harassment in all environments, including educational institutions.
Labor Law (No. 4857):
This law includes provisions to protect employees from harassment in the workplace, applicable to faculty and staff at the university, ensuring a respectful and harassment-free work environment.
Higher Education Law (No. 2547):
This law underscores the importance of creating a safe educational environment for students and staff, facilitating the implementation of anti-harassment policies in higher education institutions.
International Human Rights Instruments:
Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Article 3 affirms the right to security and freedom from violence and harassment for all individuals.
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW): This convention obligates member states to take appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination and protect women from harassment in educational settings.
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: Articles 3 and 26 emphasize the importance of equality and protection from discrimination, forming a basis for anti-harassment policies.
