The 2023-2024 Academic Year Opening and Robe Wearing Ceremony at Yalova University was recently conducted. Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bahçekapılı, addressing the audience, remarked, "As we step into the Turkish Century, we are fully aware of our responsibilities. Our focus will be on shaping the future through significant investments and an academic approach that honors our heritage."
In his keynote address titled "Lessons from Gaza" at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Yaşar Hacısalihoğlu, Rector of Istanbul Yeni Yüzyıl University, highlighted, "The 21st century is witnessing a horrific genocide. Prestigious universities worldwide face pressures from Zionist lobbies, while Gaza offers profound lessons in humanity to the entire globe."
"A Year of Shaping the Future"
Hosted at the Mehmet Okul Congress and Culture Center, the ceremony marked a significant milestone. "This year, as we commemorate the 100th anniversary of our Republic and the 15th anniversary of our university, it will be a pivotal time for envisioning and molding the future," stated Prof. Dr. Bahçekapılı. He emphasized the university's commitment to creating a vibrant campus and contributing to Yalova's economy and employment through public-industry collaborations. He also expressed solidarity with Palestine, stating, "Our silence now would mute future voices. We vehemently oppose this hypocritical world order and stand with our Palestinian brethren in their just cause."
"Gaza: A Beacon of Humanity"
Prof. Dr. Hacısalihoğlu, in his opening speech "Lessons of Gaza," reflected on the humanistic teachings emanating from Gaza, noting, "Our role is to interpret and amplify the lessons they've etched in history." He also commented on the ongoing genocide in the 21st century, the pressures faced by world-leading universities, and the broader implications of territorial occupations. He concluded, "Turkey's struggle for complete independence is evident in its proactive stance. Our security concerns extend beyond our national borders."
The ceremony also featured the presentation of a gift to Prof. Dr. Hacısalihoğlu by Yalova Governor Dr. Hülya Kaya, acknowledging his contributions.
Recognizing Academic and Administrative Excellence
The event continued with the distribution of certificates of appreciation to faculty members who excelled in scientific, social, and health disciplines in 2022, based on Academic Google data. Additionally, faculty members involved in various national and international projects were honored, along with administrative staff and students who demonstrated outstanding performance and social sensitivity. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of robes to faculty members who attained professor, associate professor, and doctoral titles in the 2022-2023 academic year.
