Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) 2024 – 2025 Academic Year Fall Semester Postgraduate, Undergraduate and Associate Graduation Ceremony was held on Friday, 31 January 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at the Lala Mustafa Paşa Sports Complex.
Present during the ceremony were; the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Ersin Tatar, TRNC Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu, UBP Member of the Parliament and General Secretary Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu, CTP Member of the Parliament Teberrüken Uluçay, Famagusta District Governor Özden Keser, Famagusta Consul General İlyas Çetin, Officials from International Embassies, EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) President Dr. Erdal Özcenk, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Girne American Univeristy Rector Prof. Dr. Serdar Yurtsever, Famagusta Section Commander Colonel Anıl Yıldız, Higher Education Planning, Accreditation and Coordination Council (YODAK) Member Prof. Dr. Remziye Terkan, Department of Culture Director Şirin Zaimağaoğlu, Presidency Advisor and EMU VYK Members Özgür Yuca and Server Karabacak, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Salih Katırcıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU Acting General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, Senate Members, Faculty Members, graduates and their families.
With the graduates of the 2024 – 2025 Academic Year Fall Semester, EMU has now reached a total of 76,000 alumni, continuing to increase the number of graduates each year.
The ceremony commenced with the entrance of graduates to the ceremony area with Senate Members and Faculty Members. Then, a moment of silence and National Anthem took place followed by speech of Tourism Management PhD graduate Bakiye Yalınç on behalf of postgraduate graduates and, the top-ranked student of the Faculty of Tourism and Department of Tourism Management Raneem Abdulrazek on behalf of associate and undergraduate degree graduates. Symbolic tree planting took place following the speeches of the graduating students.
“Success is not just a Destination, but an Ongoing Journey of Growth”
In his speech, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç shared the pride and excitement felt by the EMU family, expressing that witnessing the accomplishments of the graduates brought them immense joy. Emphasizing that every graduate is a source of pride for the EMU community and that they continue to create success stories around the globe, Prof. Dr. Kılıç proudly mentioned that EMU is celebrating its 46th year in education. Addressing the graduates, Prof. Dr. Kılıç said, “Today signifies the start of a new chapter. Over the years, you’ve been on a journey filled with lessons, projects, friendships, and experiences. Today, you stand here not just as graduates, but as individuals who will leave a lasting impact on the future. Our goal at EMU has always been to develop individuals who are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also curious, creative, and solution driven. As you face challenges, remember that you are an EMU graduate. Never stop working, learning, and growing. The future will be shaped by those who can effectively harness knowledge and lead technological advancements. You will carry the abilities you’ve gained at EMU into the world of tomorrow. Don’t hesitate to push boundaries. Stay informed on new technologies and innovations. Success is not a destination, but an ongoing journey of development. Embrace risks and think big. You are the ones who will shape the future. Now is the time to cultivate your dreams. Your success is our greatest legacy. I wish you success in all your endeavors”.
“Graduation is not an End; it is a Beginning”
Stating that they have gathered to celebrate the fruits of hardwork, ambition and determination, EMU VYK President Dr. Erdal Özcenk added that graduation from EMU does not only refer to receiving a diploma, but also to be a member of a rooted family, a global success and future.
Addressing the students, VYK President Dr. Özcenk said; “Graduation marks not an end, but a remarkable new beginning. You are now embarking on life with the identity of an EMU graduate. This identity represents being well-educated, self-assured, and a global citizen. No matter where you go, the values you gained from EMU will always be by your side. This university will remain your home. The friendships you built, the knowledge you gained, and the experiences you collected will serve as your lifelong guide. Always remember that being an EMU graduate is a privilege, and it will be the greatest strength in shaping your future. Chase your dreams courageously, face challenges without fear, and never forget that you are part of the EMU family. May your journey be bright, and may success accompany you always”.
“Your Devotedness to Science, Innovation and Ethical Values will Light Up Your Path”
The TRNC Minister of National Education, Nazım Çavuşoğlu, began his speech by offering heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates, wishing them a prosperous and successful future. He pointed out that the achievements the students made were not only their own, but also the result of the guidance provided by their professors and the unwavering support of their families. Minister Çavuşoğlu emphasized that education is the most powerful foundation in shaping the future of a nation. He also noted that the graduates did not leave Eastern Mediterranean University merely with academic knowledge, but also with the skills to understand life, think critically, and engage with different cultures. Çavuşoğlu stressed that the education they received would serve as their greatest guide in overcoming challenges. In his speech, Çavuşoğlu offered advice to the students, saying, “As you receive your diplomas today, you are not only closing one chapter but also embarking on a new journey. Our country is in great need of you. I am confident that your knowledge, determination, integrity, and hard work will greatly contribute to society. You will become the leaders, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists of the future. The most important factors that will guide your path are your commitment to science, innovation, and ethical values. Congratulations once again. May your success be endless”.
“I wish Success to All the Graduates”
In his speech, TRNC President Ersin Tatar expressed his pleasure at being present and wished all the graduates a bright and successful future. He pointed out that, while conflicts persist in different regions around the world, the graduates are beginning their life journeys with the valuable education they have received in the TRNC, and he extended his best wishes for their success. Highlighting the importance of lifelong learning, President Tatar encouraged the graduates to embrace not only the quality of their education but also the ever-evolving technologies and the values of modern civilization in the communication world. He concluded by congratulating all the students.
Following the speeches, top ranking students of the faculties and departments were presented with diplomas and awards. The ceremony continued with the presentation of diplomas to postgraduate students and awards to doctoral thesis supervisors. Then, undergraduate and associate degree program graduates received their diplomas. The ceremony concluded with a cap throwing session of students accompanied by Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and Vice Rector’s count down.