Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty organized an event on the occasion of 14 March – Medicine Day. The event took place on Friday, 13 March 2026 at 10:00 a.m. and was attended by EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) President Şemi Bora, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty Dean Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Güzoğlu, Faculty of Pharmacy Dean Prof. Dr. H. Ozan Gülcan, vice deans, department head, academic staff and students.
The event commenced with the observance of A Minute of Silence and National Anthem, followed by a promotional video of the Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty. Then, Medicine Faculty students Ada Keskin Bakış and Bahattin Keleş performed a musical recital. Following their performance, performing students were presented with bouquets by Prof. Dr. Güzoğlu, Dean of Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty.
Third year student Fersu Salel delivered a speech on behalf of Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty students, touching on the history of Medicine Day and underscored that the medical profession is not limited to diagnosing diseases but also requires understanding the human being. Stating that medicine is more than a profession and represents a way of life dedicated to humanity, Salel was presented with flowers by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç following her speech.
“A Profession of Empathy, Patience and Strong Ethical Values”
Making remarks at the event, EMU Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty Dean Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Güzoğlu noted that medical education goes far beyond lectures, textbooks, and examinations. She explained that one of the key characteristics that sets medical faculties apart from others is that the educational process is not confined to students and academic staff alone. Emphasizing that patients form the most vital part of this learning journey, Prof. Dr. Güzoğlu highlighted that the focus and ultimate purpose of the medical profession is the human being. Prof. Dr. Güzoğlu stated that one of the most important principles instilled in medical students during their education is the understanding that ‘there are no diseases, only patients’. She emphasized that every patient has a unique story, a different life, and distinct needs. Prof. Dr. Güzoğlu also added that medicine is a profession practiced not only with scientific knowledge but also with empathy, patience, and strong ethical values.
“A Great Responsibility Dedicated to Reviving Hope”
During his speech, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç highlighted that March 14 Medicine Day serves as a meaningful occasion to recognize and honor the selfless dedication of healthcare professionals. Stressing that health represents one of the most essential values of any society, Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed sincere appreciation to all healthcare workers who work tirelessly, day and night, to safeguard and improve human health. Underscoring that medicine should not be viewed merely as a profession but as a great responsibility dedicated to protecting human life, reducing suffering, and restoring hope, Prof. Dr. Kılıç also drew attention to the rapid technological developments taking place in the healthcare sector. Prof. Dr. Kılıç noted that artificial intelligence, biotechnology, genetic research, and digital health applications are shaping a new era in the world of medicine. Furthermore, he emphasized that these developments simultaneously require the education of physicians who are well-qualified, ethically responsible, and strongly committed to professional values. Prof. Dr. Kılıç highlighted that the EMU Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty, through the Marmara University Joint Medical Program, trains physicians who are aware of global health issues, closely follow scientific advancements, possess analytical thinking abilities, and remain committed to ethical principles.
“A Distinguished Field”
In his speech, EMU Board of Trustees President Şemi Bora stated that the medical profession is a sacred vocation requiring patience, dedication, knowledge, and conscience. Bora added that healthcare professionals struggle for human life at every hour of the day and highlighted that healthcare services represent a distinguished field where scientific knowledge, ethical values, and compassion come together. Bora noted that a patient’s recovery depends not only on medical treatment but also on feelings of hope and trust, stressing that physicians stand by people during their most difficult moments and provide them with support. Bora also underlined that healthcare workers in every area of the healthcare system—from nurses and technicians to laboratory staff and hospital personnel, whom he described as the invisible heroes of the healthcare system—carry out their duties with great dedication in order to protect public health. Pointing out that the world of medicine, guided by the light of science, continues to make human life healthier and safer with new developments every day, Bora underlined that these advancements are the result of great effort and devotion. He concluded his speech by congratulating all healthcare professionals on Medicine Day.
Following the opening speeches, Assist. Prof. Dr. Halil Eren Sakallı delivered a presentation on the meaning and importance of the modern medicine. The event concluded after the presentations were made.