Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Faculty of Health Sciences and School of Health Services held an oath taking ceremony for the 2024-2025 Academic Year Fall Semester graduates. The event took place on Tuesday, 28 January 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at the Champion Angels Amphitheatre where nearly 100 healthcare professionals took their oaths.
Present during the ceremony were Famagusta Consul General İlyas Çetin, EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) President Dr. Erdal Özcenk, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Director of the Department of Tourism, Promotion and Marketing Mine Emiroğlu, Chair of the Union of Turkish Cypriot Dieticians Assist. Prof. Dr. Hidayet Ağören, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, Dean of the Health Sciences Faculty Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy Prof. Dr. H. Ozan Gülcan, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry Prof. Dr. Hikmet Solak, vice deans, faculty members, students and their families.
Following the observance of a moment of silence and the National Anthem, the ceremony commenced with speeches delivered by Tayseer Said Al-Tamimi, a graduate of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, representing the English-medium programs, and Remziye Kızılbora, the top graduate of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences, who spoke on behalf of the graduates.
“Always Adhere to Science and Ethical Values”
Prof. Dr. Malkoç, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, pointed out that the faculty offers an education that meets international standards and is grounded in a thoughtful approach. Providing details about both the Faculty of Health Sciences and the School of Health Services, Prof. Dr. Malkoç emphasized the faculty’s distinguished academic team, modern facilities, and student-focused methodology, noting that they enhance both theoretical and practical knowledge for their students. Prof. Dr. Malkoç also mentioned that the faculty continues to be recognized as a reputable institution, known for its national and international accreditations in the field of health sciences.
Addressing the students, Prof. Dr. Malkoç said; “I wholeheartedly congratulate you all. This is not an ending, rather it is the first step of a new beginning. Throughout your career, everyone you meet will benefit from your knowledge, respect, and integrity. This profession is not merely a job; it is a life philosophy and a responsibility. Always stay true to the principles of science and ethics. Strive to improve and do your best at all times. Congratulations to all of you, and may your success be everlasting”.
“Abide by Ethical Values and Always Improve Yourself”
Taking the stage following Prof. Dr. Malkoç, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç extended his congratulations to the graduates. Underscoring that EMU is the sole university in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) that is established by law, Prof. Dr. Kılıç added that the Faculty of Health Sciences and the School of Health Services graduated nearly 6,800 students. Stating that they take pride in their nearly 100 graduates with 9 different nationalities, Prof. Dr. Kılıç conveyed his pleasure to be sharing a such special day with them.”
Prof. Dr. Kılıç continued his speech by saying; “As you take on the responsibility and honor of working in the healthcare sector, always bear in mind the immense value of impacting human lives. The foundation of health services is built on love for humanity, compassion, patience, and dedication. May these values guide you throughout your career. We are confident that the knowledge and skills you have gained will enable you to provide the best service to others. Along your educational journey, you not only gained knowledge but also learned empathy, patience, dedication, and responsibility, which have brought you to where you are today. Adhering to the ethical standards of your profession, continually developing yourself, and staying open to innovation will be key to your success as a healthcare professional. Don’t be afraid to face challenges. Prioritize rest and make time for yourself. I wish you a career full of success. May your journey be smooth and your future bright”.
“Empathy is the Cornerstone of Healthcare”
Conveying his contentment on attending such a special event, EMU VYK President Dr. Erdal Özcenk addressed students by saying; “Each of you is graduating with essential knowledge and expertise that plays a critical role in human health. You are now prepared to offer your skills to society. The healthcare field demands more than just scientific knowledge; it also requires compassion, love for humanity, and a commitment to ethical principles. Empathy is the cornerstone of healthcare. Always uphold your conscience and love for others. You will remain a part of EMU, and we will continue to take pride in your accomplishments. Wishing you a bright and successful future ahead”.
Following the opening speeches, the ceremony continued with the top-ranked graduate’s name being added to the name log and presentation of their award by Dr. Özcenk, Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, and Prof. Dr. Malkoç.
Graduates Took Their Oaths to Uphold the Principles and Ethical Values
Students graduating from undergraduate programs of EMU Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Department of Nursing, Department of Health Management, Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences and, students graduating from associate programs of Dental end Oral Health, Anesthetics, Surgical Services, Dialysis, Physiotherapy, First and Emergency aid, Radiotherapy, Medical Imaging and, Orthopedic Prosthetics Orthotics took their professional oaths in accompany of their Department Chairs and Program Coordinators. At the end of the ceremony, Graduates threw their caps into the air.
