# TRNC opening of first autism center > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/trnc-opening-of-first-autism-center > Updated: 2026-09-29T05:45:29.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. In late September 2026, the TRNC announced the upcoming opening of its first autism center dedicated to adults over the age of 18. Minister of Labour and Social Security Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu stated the facility would serve individuals with severe autism and provide respite care for families. Following this announcement, the Mehmet and Nazife Taşker Autism Center officially opened in Lefkoşa at the former Çağlayan Child Nursery. Operating under the Department of Social Services, the center has an initial capacity of 25 people. The opening ceremony included Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and Minister Hasipoğlu, with local officials noting the facility addresses a critical regional need for inclusive support. Subsequent reports confirm the center aims to support the social participation of individuals with autism while providing necessary assistance to their families. ## Claims - The center operates under the Department of Social Services within the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. (corroborated by 4 sources) - Mehmet Aktunç is the National Unity Party candidate for the presidency of the Nicosia Turkish Municipality. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The Mehmet and Nazife Taşker Autism Center has opened in Lefkoşa. (single source) - The center has an initial capacity of 25 people. (single source) - The center is located in the former Çağlayan Child Nursery in Lefkoşa. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-29: Lefkoşa selected as 2027 OIC Youth Capital Lefkoşa has been named the 2027 Islamic Cooperation Organization Youth Capital, aiming to connect local youth with the international community through various cultural and technological programs. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lefkoa-opens-first-autism-center-to-support-development-and-families ### 2026-09-26: TRNC to open first autism center for adults on September 28 A new autism center for adults over 18 is set to open in the TRNC on September 28, providing specialized services and family support. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/trnc-to-open-first-autism-center-for-adults-on-september-28 --- Cite as: TRNC opening of first autism center. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/trnc-opening-of-first-autism-center