The 2024–2025 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony of our university was held with great enthusiasm on Friday, June 27, at the University Stadium. Thousands of students celebrated their graduation day, while their families shared in the joy of this meaningful occasion.

The ceremony was attended by our Rector Prof. Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, Gendarmerie Training Commander Major General Uğur Ertekin, Provincial Chief of Police Hakan Yılmaz, Söğüt Mayor Ferhat Durgut, Pazaryeri Mayor Zekiye Tekin, members of the provincial protocol, senate members, academic and administrative staff, students, and their families.

The event began with a ceremonial procession led by Rector Prof. Dr. Kaplancıklı, senate members, and faculty members. This was followed by a student procession, a moment of silence, and the singing of the Turkish National Anthem. After a screening of the university’s promotional film, Merve İrem Aktaş, the top-ranking student of the 2024–2025 academic year, delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the graduates.

In his opening address, Rector Prof. Dr. Kaplancıklı shared in the graduates’ happiness and emphasized the significance of their academic achievements for the future of society. Highlighting Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University’s commitment to quality education and scientific productivity, he stated:

“Our university aims not only to equip students with professional knowledge but also to instil ethical values, critical and strategic thinking skills, a sense of social responsibility, and cultural awareness.”

Addressing the graduates, he added:

“Dear graduates, who uphold justice, goodness, and service to society as guiding principles and strive to elevate our country beyond the level of contemporary civilizations — I wish you endless success and happiness on this meaningful journey. May your path be bright and your future full of promise.”

The ceremony was further enlivened by performances from the university’s Folk Dance Ensemble. As part of the program, certificates of achievement were presented to top-performing students in undergraduate and associate degree programs. These were awarded by members of the protocol, vice rectors, faculty deans, and school directors.

One of the most symbolic moments of the day was when Merve İrem Aktaş, the valedictorian of 2024–2025, hammered her name onto the university’s graduation plaque. Students received their symbolic diplomas from their professors and concluded the celebration by tossing their caps into the air in unison.

The joyous event came to a close with a graduation concert.