Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Faculty of Dentistry organized a “White Coat Ceremony” and a “High Honour-Honour Ceremony” within the scope of 22 November, Dentistry Day and, Oral and Dental Health Week. The said ceremonies took place of Monday, 24 November 2025 at 02:00 p.m. at the Mustafa Afşin Ersoy Hall. In the ceremony, first year students who have just began their educational journey at the EMU Faculty of Dentistry as of 2025-2026 Academic Year Fall Semester were presented with their white coats. On the other hand, ranking students of 2024-2025 Academic Year Spring Semester received their honour and high honour certificates.
The ceremony was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe,Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren and Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, Chair of the Chamber of Turkish Cypriot Dentists Turhan Ulutekin, EMU Faculty of Dentistry Dean Prof. Dr. Hikmet Solak, Health Sciences University Faculty of Dentistry Dean Prof. Dr. Simel Ayyıldız, EMU Health Sciences Faculty Dean Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, EMU Faculty of Pharmacy Dean Prof. Dr. Ozan Gülcan, EMU Dr. Fazıl Küçük Medicine Faculty Acting Dean Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Gözoğlu, many academics, students and their families.
“One of the Oldest Professions in the World”
Following a moment of silence and national anthem, the event continued with opening speeches, EMU Faculty of Dentistry’s Dean Prof. Dr. Hikmet Solak provided insights on Dentistry Day which has been celebrated for the 117th time this year. Noting that the profession of dentistry is one of the oldest professions in the world, Prof. Dr. Solak touched on the history of dentistry and highlighted the differences between dentistry as a profession and being a dentist. Prof. Dr. Solak spoke about the founding of the Turkish Dentistry Organization and the declaration of World Oral Health Day on 22 November. He noted that the dental school began its education in 1909 and reflected on the evolution of dental education and the profession over time. Stressing that dentistry is a respected field, Prof. Dr. Solak emphasized that maintaining its sustainability is a shared responsibility. Moveoer, Prof. Dr. Solak also reaffirmed that the EMU Faculty of Dentistry will continue to lead advancements in the profession and extended his congratulations on Dentists’ Day and Oral Health Week.
Prof. Dr. Simel Ayyıldız, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at the Health Sciences University, highlighted that the ceremony was not merely about wearing the white coat, but about honouring the profession, embracing the responsibility of tradition, and committing to the service of humanity. Quoting Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—“Every effort devoted to medicine is the most valuable investment in the health of the nation”—Prof. Dr. Ayyıldız noted that today reflects the purest and most hopeful expression of that investment. She also provided details about the joint dentistry program with EMU. Emphasizing that the white coat represents more than attire, she described it as a symbol of cleanliness, responsibility, knowledge, and conscience. She concluded by congratulating everyone on Dentists’ Day and Oral Health Week.
“A Symbol of Ethics, Respect, and Professional Responsibility”
Turhan Ulutekin, Chair of the Chamber of Turkish Cypriot Dentists, addressed the students, saying: “The white coat you wear today is more than just a uniform—it represents ethical maturity, respect for others, and responsibility to your profession. Even in times of increased competition and larger class sizes, I am confident that you will uphold knowledge, morality, and conscience in your practice. A successful dentist is recognized not only for technical skills but also for treating every patient with fairness, care, and ethical conduct. Today’s step marks the start of a lifelong journey of trust, respect, and integrity. May your conscience shine as brightly as your white coat”.
“EMU – A Scientific Center Preferred in International Arena”
In his speech, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç expressed his joy at being with the students on this very special day, emphasizing that the occasion is not just a ceremony but a symbol of the first serious step in their professional lives, a blank page, and the beginning of a meaningful journey. He noted that celebrating Dentistry Day and Oral Health Week together made the day even more significant, highlighting that oral and dental health is a fundamental aspect of well-being, affecting everything from an individual’s confidence and social life to healthy nutrition and communication. Prof. Dr. Kılıç also underlined that since 2009, EMU has strengthened its investments in the health sector, developing a broad healthcare education ecosystem, and has become a preferred scientific center not only regionally but also internationally. Addressing the students directly, Prof. Dr. Kılıç said: “The white coat you will wear today is not just clothing—it is a stance, a responsibility, and a symbol of honor. It represents honesty, dedication, respect for human health, and ethical principles. As you wear it, remember that you carry not only your knowledge and skills but also compassion, humanity, and a sense of responsibility. Every clinic you enter, every patient you touch, and every treatment you perform will create meaningful change in someone’s life. I wholeheartedly congratulate all of our students and have full confidence that you will become physicians guided by science and ethical principles.
Unable to attend the ceremony, EMU Board of Trustees President Dr. Erdal Özcenk forwarded a message that read: “The white coat you wear today symbolizes the trust placed in you to uphold the light of science, ethical responsibility, and the power to make a difference in people’s lives. Dentistry is no longer just a field of treatment—it is a leading arena in the global transformation from AI to digital clinics. You are the pioneers of this change and the embodiment of EMU’s vision for the future. The achievement certificates you receive today are the first mark of the influence you will have on the international stage. By moving forward with science, courage, and responsibility, you will thrive in your profession. We have full confidence in you and wish you every success”.
Following the opening speeches, the event continued with the presentation of white coats to students and ended with the presentation of honour and high honour certificates to the ranking students of EMU Dentistry Faculty in the 2024-2025 Academic Year Spring Semester.