EMU Graduates Bid Farewell to the City with the Traditional Graduation Walk

Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Spring Semester Graduates of the 2024-2025 Academic Year bid farewell to the city of Gazimağusa on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 8:00 p.m., with the traditional Graduation Walk. Wearing their graduation gowns and carrying torches, the graduates walked from in front of the Mağusa Gelişim Academy to the Walled City of Famagusta.

The graduates were accompanied by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, along with faculty members, administrative staff, and the families of the graduates. During the approximately one-hour walk, the graduates reached Namık Kemal Square, where they were welcomed by a performance from the Othello Folklore Association’s Folk Dance Group. Along the route, olive branches were burned and blue beads—symbolizing good luck—were distributed to the students.

“You Did It, Friends – You Are Now Graduates!”
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç began his speech by saying, “You did it, friends – you are now graduates!” He continued, “Everyone knew this journey would end in success.” Prof. Dr. Kılıç added, “It was challenging—you worked through the nights, submitted last-minute projects—but in the end, you made it, and today, you are officially EMU graduates.”

He emphasized that studying at EMU also meant living in the historic city of Gazimağusa, and the memories made here would greatly enrich students’ life experiences. Prof. Dr. Kılıç highlighted the importance of collective awareness and effort for the university to reach its true goals, noting the significant role the city plays in that journey.

He stressed that the graduates' achievements are a source of great pride for both their families and the university. Expressing his belief that EMU graduates will represent the university with pride across different parts of the world, Prof. Dr. Kılıç concluded his speech by stating that Namık Kemal Square—witness to many historic events—now stood witness to the success of EMU graduates.

Following the speeches, the enthusiastic crowd continued the graduation celebrations with live performances by Ahmet Ced and his orchestra.