Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Tourism and Bafra Vocational School of Tourism bid farewell to their graduates in a joint commencement ceremony. A total of 31 students from the Faculty of Tourism and 16 students from Bafra Vocational School of Tourism successfully completed their studies in the 2025–2026 academic year.

The ceremony, held at the Hanife Aşçı Conference Hall of the Faculty of Tourism, was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism Prof. Dr. Yetkin Bulut, Director of Bafra Vocational School of Tourism Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhal Çilingir Ük, President of the Bafra Chamber of Commerce and Industry Serdal Sefa Kocabaş, Director of Bafra Probation Office Mustafa Ersoy, Vice President of the Bafra Commodity Exchange Kenan Yıldızoğlu, faculty benefactor Kaya Aşçı, President of the Bafra Young Businesspeople Association Muharrem Uyar, academics, public officials, graduates, and their families.

Vice Rector Sumer: “Tourism is a field that brings societies closer together

Addressing the graduates, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer noted that graduation is a source of pride not only for students but also for their families, academics, and the university.

“Today, our graduates are receiving not only a diploma but also taking on an important responsibility. Tourism is a field that builds bridges between cultures, brings societies closer together, and contributes to the international promotion of countries. You have been trained as professionals who will introduce our country’s historical, natural, and cultural riches to the world. I sincerely congratulate all our graduates and believe they will achieve significant success in the future.”

Dean Bulut: “Tourism brings people and cultures together”

Dean of the Faculty of Tourism Prof. Dr. Yetkin Bulut emphasized that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of a journey.

“Graduating from the Faculty of Tourism means more than completing courses; it means learning to understand people, respect different cultures, and establish a common language with individuals from around the world. Tourism is about promoting a country’s culture and leaving lasting impressions on people. Continue learning throughout your lives and let knowledge and science guide your path. May your future be bright.”

Director Çilingir Ük: “You will represent our country as cultural ambassadors”

Director of Bafra Vocational School of Tourism Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhal Çilingir Ük highlighted the institution’s contribution to the tourism sector.

“The tourism industry is people-oriented and strategically important for our country. You are among those who will shape its future. With the education and experience you have gained, you will not only have a profession but will also serve as cultural ambassadors representing our country. I wholeheartedly congratulate all our graduates and their families.”

Valedictorian Halabi: “Today marks the beginning of new journeys”

Faculty valedictorian Nihal Halabi described graduation as the culmination of years of effort and cherished memories.

“I would like to thank our academics, administrative staff, and all university employees who guided us throughout this journey. Today is not an ending but the beginning of new paths. Years from now, we will remember the friendships we built, the memories we shared, and the professors who supported us. I wish all my classmates health, success, and wonderful journeys ahead.”

The ceremony concluded with graduates of the Faculty of Tourism and Bafra Vocational School of Tourism celebrating by tossing their caps into the air.