Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Faculty of Health Sciences and School of Health Services organized the traditional Professional Oath Ceremony for the 2025-2064 Academic Year Fall Semester graduates. During the ceremony, graduates pledged their commitment to ethical values, human rights, and professional responsibilities as they prepared to begin their professional careers. The event took place on Thursday, 29 January 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Champion Angels Amphitheater.
Present at the ceremony were the EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, Dean of EMU Faculty of Pharmacy Prof. Dr. H. Ozan Gülcan, Dean of EMU Dr. Fazıl Küçük Faculty of Medicine Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Güzoğlu, department chairs, faculty members, students and their families.
Commenced with the observation of a Moment of Silence and National Anthem, the ceremony continued with introductory video screenings of the Eastern Mediterranean University Faculty and Faculty of Health Sciences. Following a musical performance by Faculty of Education, Department of Fine Arts Education Music Teaching Program student Güray Gündüz, the top ranking students of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Azeezah O Babaranti, and the School of Health Services, Oral and Dental Health Associate Program student Gizem Ay, delivered speeches on behalf of the graduates.
“Your Oath is a Compass Guiding You”
In her opening remarks at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, Dean of the EMU Faculty of Health Sciences, welcomed the participants and highlighted that the gathering was not simply a ceremonial event, but a meaningful occasion marking the affirmation of professional identity and ethical responsibility. She emphasized that healthcare systems are sustained not only by technological advancements, but also by well-trained professionals, strong educational foundations, ethical principles, and the vital role of human interaction. Prof. Dr. Malkoç noted that the EMU Faculty of Health Sciences and the School of Health Services undertake a guiding role by assuming responsibility and setting standards, adding that the faculty embraces an approach focused not merely on launching programs or graduating students, but on educating and producing competent, well-qualified graduates. Making remarks on the faculty and the school, Prof. Dr. Malkoç addressed the students, saying; “Dear colleagues, the oath you take today will serve as your guiding compass throughout your professional journey, while your diploma represents the knowledge and skills with which you begin this path. A career in healthcare is not one of comfort; it carries great responsibility, yet its purpose is deeply meaningful. Let science lead your decisions. Apply technology with understanding and wisdom. Keep the human being at the heart of everything you do. I congratulate you sincerely and wish you every success on the road ahead”.
“Let Science Be Your Guide”
In his address, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç stated that the ceremony marked the beginning of a meaningful journey centered on serving and protecting human life, and drew attention to the vital importance of the oath taken in the healthcare profession. He noted that many influential figures throughout history have shaped the present through the steps they took, citing Florence Nightingale, one of the pioneers of modern nursing, as a notable example. Prof. Dr. Kılıç emphasized that true professionalism lies in recognizing what is right and applying it at the most crucial moments. Addressing the graduates, he remarked; “The oath you take will serve as your guiding compass. Every contribution you make in the field of healthcare will bring professional achievement and respect. The source of trust placed in you lies in your commitment to ethical principles and the integrity you demonstrate. Trust is the most invaluable element in healthcare. Wherever your career may lead you, let science be your guide. Place your conscience and respect for human dignity at the heart of your work. I wish you every success in your professional lives. May your path be clear, and may your conscience always guide you.”
Following the speeches, and Dean Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç accompanied the top students while they added their names onto the traditional log. On the other hand, Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented them with souvenirs.
Took Their First Steps into the Profession
Within the scope of the ceremony, Faculty of Health Sciences and School of Health Services undergraduate and associate degree graduates took their professional oaths, taking their first step into the profession. EMU Faculty of Health Sciences, including the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Department of Nursing, Department of Health Management, Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences, as well as graduates from the associate programs of Oral and Dental Health, Anesthesia, Operating Room Services, Dialysis, Physiotherapy, First and Emergency Aid, Radiotherapy, Medical Imaging, and Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics, recited their respective oaths accompanied by Department Heads and Program Coordinators. After reading their oaths, the graduates enthusiastically threw their caps in celebration of their graduation.
