Future leaders received their diplomas
151 students, who successfully completed their master’s and doctorate degrees at Izmir University of Economics (IUE), received their diplomas at an enthusiastic graduation ceremony. Having gained expertise in their desired fields, the students put on their gowns, threw their caps in the air, and fully enjoyed their moment of happiness.
The graduates, who were rewarded for their hard work, created a colorful atmosphere by attending the on-campus ceremony with their families or children. Throughout the night, they took many photos with their professors and experienced the joy of reaching a moment they had long dreamed of. The ceremony was attended by Izmir Chamber of Commerce Assembly Vice President Mehmet Tahir Özdemir, IUE Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Aslı Ceylan Öner, members of the board of trustees, and other guests.
“THEY WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF OUR COUNTRY”
Noting that the graduate school, which was established in 2019, has achieved great success in a short time and produced over a thousand graduates, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Efe Biresselioğlu, IUE Vice Rector and Founding Director of the Graduate School said, “As the founding director of this graduate school, I have witnessed a design turn into reality within six years. During this period, our school has become one of the strongest graduate structures in this country. Our graduates are not just individuals who have completed their academic journey, but also pioneers who will shape the future of Turkey.”
“THE IDENTITY OF A RESEARCH UNIVERSITY WILL BE STRENGTHENED”
Stating that IUE aims to strengthen its identity as a research university and become a pioneer in the national and international scientific community, Prof. Dr. Biresselioğlu said that graduate education is the backbone of this vision. Prof. Dr. Biresselioğlu also gave important messages to the young graduates, saying, “Our great leader, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, gave us an important message with his statement, ‘Societies that want to live comfortably without working, getting tired, or producing, first lose their dignity, then their freedom, and finally their independence’. You are the generation that carries the responsibility of this statement. You will continue to elevate Turkey with science, work, and production. We wish you all the best. Our expectations of you are great because you are now part of the shared future of not only your own, but also of our country and humanity.”
“YOU MUST USE SCIENCE WITH RESPONSIBILITY”
Prof. Dr. Muhittin Hakan Demir, Director of the IUE Graduate School, emphasized that graduate education is not just an academic advancement but also a mental and personal transformation. Prof. Dr. Demir said, “Graduation ceremonies are often seen as an ending. However, this ceremony is actually the first line of a new page, opened by each of you through your own efforts. The diplomas you receive are not just documents of successfully completed courses, or a submitted project or thesis. They are also symbols of your patience, resilience, and commitment to learning. These diplomas also give you the task of advancing in your profession, contributing more to society, and using science responsibly.”
“YOU WILL DIRECT THE CHANGE”
Stating that the world is in a rapid state of change and highlighting the importance of quality education, Prof. Dr. Demir said, “Many issues, from the climate crisis to digital transformation, from social justice issues to global cooperation, need your knowledge and vision. Therefore, the education you have received is not just your personal success, but also a common gain for society and humanity. From today on, we will see you perhaps in a laboratory or in a company's management. Wherever you are, the essence of graduate education is the will to continue learning. As Izmir University of Economics, we have adopted a contemporary, innovative, and entrepreneurial vision since our establishment. Our goal is not just to produce graduates, but to train individuals who are committed to understanding and transforming the world. The world is constantly changing, and knowledge is constantly being renewed. We believe that you will not just adapt to this change, but will be individuals who direct it.”
