The Faculty of Engineering at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMÜ) celebrated the graduation of 460 young engineers during its 2025–2026 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony, sending them into their professional careers with a joyful commencement ceremony.

The ceremony, held at the OMU Life Center, was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, Secretary General Prof. Dr. Erhan Burak Pancar, Rector’s Advisor Associate Professor Begüm Korunur Engiz, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Prof. Dr. Yıldıray Topçu, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Samsun University Prof. Dr. Mustafa Aktaş, Dean of the Faculty of Science Prof. Dr. Erkan Yalçın, Director of Yeşilyurt Demir Çelik Vocational School Prof. Dr. Gökhan Demir, academic staff, representatives of professional organizations, graduating students, and their families.

Vice Rector Kurnaz: “A University’s Greatness Is Measured by the Quality of Its Graduates”

Following a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz addressed the graduates, emphasizing that graduation represents not an ending but the beginning of a new chapter.

“You are now ready to leave the nest. Through the education you have received, you have become individuals equipped both professionally and personally. A university’s greatness is measured by the greatness of its graduates. I am confident that you will continue to elevate the reputation of OMU,” he said.

Dean Topçu: “Engineering Is the Responsibility of Adding Value to Human Life”

Dean Prof. Dr. Yıldıray Topçu highlighted that engineering is not merely a technical profession but also one that carries ethical and social responsibilities.

“Graduation is not an end but the first step toward new beginnings. The diploma you receive today represents not only your academic success but also your dedication, perseverance, and determination. You are expected to become not only competent engineers but also conscientious individuals who are responsible to society. True engineering is about creating solutions that improve human life,” he said.

Valedictorian Saltoğlu: “This Achievement Is the Result of a Collective Effort”

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Faculty valedictorian Nurcan Saltoğlu, a graduate of the Department of Civil Engineering, described her university years as a period of intensive learning and personal growth.

“In every challenge we faced, we were guided by our professors and supported by our friends. The success we celebrate today is not an individual accomplishment but the result of a collective effort. As engineers, we now carry the responsibility of helping build the future. My deepest gratitude goes to my family and my professors,” she said.

Certificates Presented to Outstanding Graduates

Following the speeches, Certificates of Achievement and awards were presented to the Faculty’s top-ranking graduates by members of the protocol.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional cap toss, as graduates celebrated the successful completion of their university education.