A general cooperation protocol has been signed between Arkın University of Creative Arts and Design (ARUCAD) and Girne Rehabilitation Centre (Cheshire Home). The main objective of the protocol is to establish a collaboration between the two institutions in social, cultural, educational, and community-oriented activities, particularly within the framework of philanthropy.
The signing ceremony took place at ARUCAD, with the signatures of Prof. Dr. Asım Vehbi, the Rector of ARUCAD, and Mehmet Metin Şenova, the Chairman of the Girne Rehabilitation Centre (Cheshire Home). Cheshire Home was founded in the United Kingdom in 1948 by Leonard Cheshire to provide support services to those injured in war. Over the years, the centres have expanded to provide services to individuals with special needs. The Girne Rehabilitation Centre (Cheshire Home) was established in 1995 entirely through the services and donations of volunteers and continues to serve the community.
Mehmet Metin Şenova: “We are even more hopeful for the future.”
During the protocol ceremony, Mehmet Metin Şenova, the Chairman of the Girne Rehabilitation Centre, explained how the centre has been operating for several years and had been established to care for individuals over 18 years of age with physical and mental challenges. Its aim is to provide care and assistance, while also creating time for them and their families. He mentioned that the centre has been active for nearly 30 years in Girne. After the COVID-19 pandemic, they faced difficulties in resuming their activities, including loss of members and a decrease in the number of guests. However, with the help of a few well-intentioned individuals, they managed to resume operations and, during discussions on how to find resources collectively as a board of directors, ARUCAD offered a very positive proposal. He emphasised that they are signing an agreement today that benefits everyone, expressing gratitude and excitement for the future.
Prof. Dr. Asım Vehbi said, “It is a project we should always support.”
Beginning his speech by thanking the officials of the Girne Rehabilitation Centre and everyone who had contributed so far, Rector Prof. Dr. Asım Vehbi stated that it was a project the country needed, making many deprived individuals and their families happy. Hence, it was a sustainable project that needed continuous support. In this regard, ARUCAD has stepped in to contribute. He mentioned that universities become integral parts of society shortly after their establishment, and they should always undertake projects that benefit society. ARUCAD decided to hold some classes from the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts at the rehabilitation centre during its free hours, thus, however modest, making a small contribution. They were warmly welcomed, and their goal was not just to use the building or provide such assistance, but to collaborate with the Girne Rehabilitation Centre and their students to create projects that would be beneficial to society.
