Uzbekistan to study Turkish model of child rehabilitation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan’s National Agency for Social Protection and Turkish child rehabilitation center Avrupa Çocuk have discussed the possibility of establishing a comprehensive child rehabilitation facility in Uzbekistan based on the Turkish model. The Dunyo news agency reported this.

The prospects for implementing such a project were discussed in Istanbul as part of preparations for a new initiative aimed at expanding modern social services for children and strengthening support for families.

During the visit, representatives of the Agency familiarized themselves with the work of Avrupa Çocuk, which has provided assistance to children with disabilities and various developmental conditions since 2010. The center works with children with autism spectrum disorders, impaired motor and fine motor skills, as well as speech and cognitive development difficulties.

The center covers about 3,000 square meters and has the capacity to serve up to 1,400 children per month. There are 13 Avrupa Çocuk branches operating in Istanbul. Services under relevant programs implemented jointly with Türkiye’s Ministry of National Education are provided free of charge to children and their families.

The approach is based on an individual program for each child. Following an initial assessment, specialists evaluate the child’s needs, determine areas for rehabilitation and education, and then regularly monitor progress.

Physiotherapists, speech therapists, psychologists and educators are involved in working with children. The methods used include sensory integration, speech and physical therapy, as well as specialized programs aimed at developing independence and everyday life skills.

Particular attention in the Turkish model is given to parents. They are involved in the rehabilitation process and receive support on helping children adapt to a new environment.

Following the visit, the Turkish experience was identified as one of the possible areas for further development of the child rehabilitation system in Uzbekistan. Specific parameters of the proposed project will be determined through further cooperation between the parties.