Hacettepe University implements planned, institutional measures to actively support the inclusion, participation and recruitment of under-represented and disadvantaged groups. This commitment is embedded in the 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, which includes the objective of ensuring the equal participation and social integration of disadvantaged, vulnerable and under-represented groups in university services and opportunities. This goal is also supported by a corresponding Senate decision.

The university operates a dedicated Disabled Student Unit, which functions under an official directive. The unit provides academic, physical and social support to students with disabilities; coordinates accessibility and accommodation processes; facilitates access to learning materials, assistive devices and infrastructure; and organises awareness-raising activities on inclusive education. In each faculty, a Disability Student Counselors is appointed, and their contact information is publicly available on the unit’s website. In addition, a student representative with disabilities participates in the University Senate (without voting rights), ensuring representation in institutional decision-making processes.

Hacettepe University implements extensive accessible campus practices, including:

• reserved housing quotas for students with disabilities (secured through official regulations),

• ramps and tactile ground surfaces across the Beytepe Campus,

• accessible restrooms with appropriate dimensions and equipment,

• certification of accessible spaces through the national “Barrier-Free University” (Engelsiz Üniversite) system,

• dedicated accessible transportation platforms,

• Braille signage across various facilities,

• wheelchair-accessible platforms and stair lift systems in multiple campus locations,

• accessible parking spaces in designated areas.

Example of Disabled Ramps and Ground Reliefs in Hacettepe University

   

For these efforts, the university received the 2024 Council of Higher Education (YÖK) Barrier-Free University Award.

Hacettepe also supports socio-economically disadvantaged students through structured financial assistance programmes. As of September 2024, the university provides:

• free housing opportunities for 163 students,

• one free meal per day for 1,157 students,

• three free meals per day for 197 students.

Students may also participate in the part-time student employment programme, which offers up to 15 hours of paid work per week in accordance with national regulations.

Part-Time Student Employment Regulations for Higher Education Institutions

These measures collectively demonstrate Hacettepe University’s systematic and planned institutional approach to increasing access, participation and support for under-represented and disadvantaged groups.