Graduation Excitement at Akdeniz University
Akdeniz University, approximately 8,000 students graduated by throwing their caps at the 2023-2024 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony, taking a step into their new lives. Antalya Governor Hulusi Şahin, who presented the diplomas to the top students, said, “A Turkish woman who left her mark on Turkey…”.

Approximately 8,000 students who graduated at the Akdeniz University 2023-2024 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony took a step into their new lives by throwing their caps. Antalya Governor Hulusi Şahin, who presented the documents to the top students, congratulated Özlenen Özkan, a Turkish woman who left a mark on Turkey, saying, ‘I congratulate our esteemed Özlenen Özkan, a Turkish woman who is a role model for Turkish girls with her presence.’
At the graduation ceremony, upon the request of students and parents, the match of the Turkish National Football Team against Austria in the European Football Championship was also broadcasted on giant screens, allowing the students to experience both the graduation and the match excitement together.
The Akdeniz University 2023-2024 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony took place at the Akdeniz University Stadium. Antalya Governor Hulusi Şahin, who presented the document and plaque to the top student of the Faculty of Medicine, expressed pride in the students and stated that they are the future of Turkey.
Governor Şahin also thanked all those who have contributed to the development of Akdeniz University over the past 40 years. He specifically praised Özlenen Özkan, a Turkish woman who has achieved success both academically and professionally, for being a role model for Turkish girls.
Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Muhittin Böcek expressed his gratitude to Akdeniz University for its achievements in the field of health, emphasizing the importance of graduating from such a prestigious educational institution.
Mayor Böcek encouraged the graduates to never give up on their dreams and to work towards building a livable future together. He also highlighted the importance of using knowledge and education to contribute to society.
Akdeniz University Rector Prof. Dr. Özlenen Özkan congratulated the graduates on their academic achievements and emphasized that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Rector Özkan mentioned the challenges faced during the students’ academic journey and praised their resilience in overcoming difficulties, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and earthquake. She also announced the commencement of student admissions to the Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering Department.
Rector Özkan encouraged the graduates to adapt to technological advancements and innovations, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and personal development in today’s rapidly changing world.
Rector Özkan urged the graduates to be leaders who uphold universal values and to contribute to the betterment of society, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to their country.
The ceremony concluded with the graduates tossing their caps, and the national football match was broadcasted on screens, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Governor, Members of Parliament, and university officials.