SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION CENTERS SEEK SUPPORT

In a meeting at the Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce (ETO) to discuss the challenges faced by special education and rehabilitation centers, it was emphasized that for the sector's sustainability and continued quality education, government support should be raised to 50% of the minimum wage.

ETO members operating in the field of special education and rehabilitation gathered to address sectoral issues. ETO President Metin Güler attended the meeting, where industry challenges and potential solutions were discussed. Center managers highlighted the critical importance of maintaining high-quality education for the future of the sector.

Support Reduced to a Third of Minimum Wage

It was noted that government support is essential for these centers to continue their operations. While education support for special needs students was equal to the minimum wage in 2006, it has now decreased to just one-third of the minimum wage. ETO members pointed out that operating costs, especially rent, energy, and supplies, have tripled, putting additional pressure on these institutions. Due to rising costs, two institutions in Eskişehir have already ceased operations. ETO members called for the per-student government support to be at least half of the minimum wage.

Increased Support Essential for Sustainable, Quality Education

ETO members stressed that increased financial support from the government is necessary to maintain services. They expressed concern that without addressing these issues, special education and rehabilitation centers may be forced to shut down. Center representatives requested that their concerns be reported to the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey, as well as to the Ministry of Treasury and Finance, the Ministry of National Education, and parliament members.

ETO to Follow Up on the Process

ETO President Metin Güler emphasized the importance of these centers in supporting special needs students' education, assuring that ETO would convey all requests and issues to the relevant authorities. He stated that ETO would actively advocate for solutions and closely monitor the process.