Izmir University of Economics (IUE) celebrated its 20^th anniversary with graduation ceremonies and bid farewell to its students. At the graduation ceremonies held with the concept of 'pearl' this year, oyster shell icons were placed on the field and the slogan 'you are a pearl' was used. The world famous marbling artist Garip Ay was the guest of the graduation ceremonies. Guests of the ceremony had a pleasant evening with Ay, who performed in company with the "Smyrna Quartet" composed of artists from Izmir. Addressing the students at the ceremony, Mahmut Özgener, President of IUE Board of Trustees said, “The doors of the University and Izmir Chamber of Commerce are open to you. We will always be with you. You are now ready to take Turkey forward by achieving success in different fields.”

This year's graduation ceremonies of Izmir University of Economics were held in the amphitheater on campus. Graduation ceremonies were held on 3 days as part of the extensive measures taken against the Covid-19 pandemic. IUE, which graduated 1,800 students in the 2020-2021 Academic Year, did not forget the students whose graduation ceremony could not be held last year due to the pandemic. A separate program was organized for students who graduated from the university last year, the graduates of the last two years experienced the graduation enthusiasm together. At the end of the ceremony, the graduates threw their caps into the air and experienced the joy of completing the university successfully.

'MASTER'S AND DOCTORATE' AWARD

IUE made a big gesture to the highest ranking students who graduated from the University and paved the way for students to improve themselves by taking postgraduate education. Master’s and doctorate education awards were given to the students who graduated from the university in the top 3, and master’s education awards were given to all the top students in undergraduate programs. IUE Board of Trustees President Mahmut Özgener, IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Aşkar, Izmir Chamber of Commerce Council President Selami Özpoyraz, Yaşar University Rector Prof. Dr. Cemali Dinçer, members of the board of trustees, academics, students and their families attended the ceremony, which was the scene of great enthusiasm and excitement.

YOU WILL HAVE A SAY

Speaking at the ceremony, President Özgener said that IUE graduates will have a say not only in their own lives, but also in the future of Izmir and our country. Addressing the students, President Özgener said, “Every step you take from now on will affect people other than yourself. You are now ready to put your life in order, to contribute to the institutions and sectors you work for, and to take Turkey forward by achieving success in different fields. The education you receive at Izmir University of Economics will enable you to surpass many of your competitors in the world from the beginning. While our generations change jobs once or twice in their lifetime, this number will rise to over 5 in your generations. You must become people who are open to new ideas, follow new developments closely, and put education into your life cycle in an indispensable way to make both yourself, your loved ones and your country happy in the next 30-40 years.”

CLING TO YOUR DREAMS

President Özgener continued as follows: “You are the children of people who laid down their lives for this country, who made revolutions to create a new country from the ashes of an empire. Everything Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and his comrades did, every word they said still illuminates our path. We are very lucky to live in a country founded by a leader who said, 'My spiritual legacy is science and reason' and guided the Republic he founded with this philosophy. We expect you to be people who guide, not those who are 'directed'. Take your decisions with courage. Always set your goals high. Do not be afraid to live, do not hesitate; cling to your dreams. Never lose your excitement, always look at the positive side of life. Don't ever lose that light in your eyes and show your love for humanity and country throughout your life.”

YOU WILL FEEL THE POWER OF THE UNIVERSITY

IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Murat Aşkar said, “Now a new era, a completely different life adventure begins for you. Now it's your turn to be successful and achieve your dreams. You have a very important power for this; having a diploma from Izmir University of Economics, being a member of such a large and close-knit family. You, who have undergone a qualified education process, in line with the strong vision, values ​​and philosophy of our university, will always be advantageous and privileged. We believe that you will make us proud by achieving great success not only in Turkey but also in the international arena. You will always feel the power of Izmir University of Economics with you on this path you are taking. In these days when the importance of science and technology and qualified employees is notable once again, you will shine like a light wherever you go.”