The Faculty of Health Sciences at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) celebrated the graduation of 671 students during its 2025–2026 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony, sending a new generation of healthcare professionals into their careers.

The ceremony was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Esra Pancar Yüksel, academic staff, graduating students, and their families.

“This Ceremony Marks Not Only the Completion of an Education but the Beginning of a New Professional Journey”

In her opening address, Dean Prof. Dr. Esra Pancar Yüksel expressed her pride and happiness in celebrating this important milestone with the graduates.

“This ceremony marks not only the completion of an educational journey but also the beginning of a new professional path dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals and society,” she said.

Prof. Dr. Yüksel emphasized that the graduates were entering professions devoted to protecting, promoting, and improving the health of individuals, families, and communities. She stressed the importance of keeping pace with scientific knowledge and technological developments throughout their careers.

“One of the most meaningful aspects of our profession is being able to understand a patient's concerns and share in a family's hopes,” she noted, expressing her confidence that the graduates would serve both the nation and humanity as knowledgeable, conscientious professionals with strong ethical and national values.

She concluded her speech by thanking the families for their sacrifices and the academic staff for their dedication, wishing all graduates lifelong success.

“Success Means Dedication, Sacrifice, and Taking Responsibility”

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Faculty valedictorian Zehra Nur Ayaz, a graduate of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program, described representing her Faculty as valedictorian as both an immense honor and a great responsibility.

“Success is not merely an outcome; success means dedication, sacrifice, and taking responsibility,” she said. “The diploma we hold today is a silent witness to four years of perseverance, faith, and determination.”

Ayaz noted that the University had taught students not only professional knowledge but also how to research, question, and remain committed to ethical values.

She expressed her gratitude to her family, professors, and classmates. Sharing that her father had also graduated from the University as the Faculty salutatorian, she addressed him with heartfelt words:

“This time, the torch has been passed to me, but this achievement is built upon your example, your dedication, and your support.”

She concluded her speech with an inspiring message to her fellow graduates:

“Look not only at your diploma, but at your compass.”

Diplomas Presented to Graduates

Following the speeches, diplomas were presented to the graduates.

After the professional oath ceremony, the event concluded with the traditional cap toss, as graduates celebrated the successful completion of their university education.