Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) the University of the Third Age / 60+ Senior Development Program organized an event titled “1st Year-End Celebration: Renewed with Eastern Mediterranean University” on Thursday, 11 June 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at Champion Angels Amphitheatre. Held in collaboration with the Municipality of Famagusta and Elder Rights and Mental Health Association, the event received strong participation from EMU 60+ students who had a joyous and vibrant evening. As part of the program, participants came together for a cake-cutting ceremony, sharing the joy of successfully completing the first academic year.
The event was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU Health Sciences Faculty Dean Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, Elder Rights and Mental Health Association’s Vice Chair as well as the University of the Third Age / 60+ Senior Development Program student Semral Erel, the University of the Third Age / 60+ Senior Development Program Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zehra Güçhan Topcu, Advisory Board members, academic staff members who have voluntarily contributed to the program throughout the semester and 60+ students.
“A Very Special Project”
In her speech, Semral Erel, Vice Chair of the Elder Rights and Mental Health Association, stated that she was extremely happy and proud to be part of the program as a student of the EMU The University Of The Third Age / 60+ Senior Development Program. Emphasizing that the initiative represents not only an educational program but also a very special project she had dreamed of for many years, Erel expressed her great satisfaction with the establishment of a platform where older adults can continue to produce, keep learning, and actively participate in social life. Stressing that learning has no age limit, Erel said, “We believe that life after the age of 60 is not an end, but the beginning of new opportunities.” She also thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the project, noting that the true wealth of a society is measured by the value it places on its elderly individuals.
“Beginning of a Long-Term Journey”
In her remarks on the matter, The University of the Third Age / 60+ Senior Development Program Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zehra Güçhan Topcu stated that the University of the Third Age had been established through tremendous dedication and hard work since its foundation and expressed her delight at the successful completion of its first academic semester. Emphasizing that the program marks the beginning of a long-term journey, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Topcu noted that the enthusiasm and happiness demonstrated by the participants have been their greatest source of motivation.
“A Significant Initiative Bringing Different Generations Together”
In his speech, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay expressed his pleasure at participating in such a meaningful event, noting that the project, carried out in cooperation with EMU, has made significant contributions to the city’s social life. Emphasizing that Famagusta is progressing toward becoming a model city not only through its historical and touristic heritage but also through its social initiatives, Dr. Uluçay described the University of the Third Age as an important initiative that brings together different generations. He thanked everyone who contributed to the realization of the project and expressed his hope that similar social initiatives would continue to grow and flourish in the future.
“One of the Most Meaningful Projects”
Addressing the attendees, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç stated that the University of the Third Age is among the most valuable initiatives realized within the framework of his rectorial vision. He emphasized that the project supports older individuals in maintaining an active role in society while exemplifying the importance of collaboration between universities and the wider community. Referring to the partnership with the Famagusta Municipality and the Elder Rights and Mental Health Association as a key factor in the program’s success, Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed his satisfaction with the completion of its first academic year and thanked everyone involved for their dedication. He also expressed his belief that the program would continue to develop and reach even greater success in the future.
Following the opening addresses, Semral Erel, Vice Chair of the Elder Rights and Mental Health Association, representing the students of the EMU 60+ Senior Development / University of the Third Age Program, and the program’s Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zehra Güçhan Topcu presented commemorative gifts to EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay, and EMU Faculty of Health Sciences Dean Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç.
As part of the celebration, students of the 60+ Senior Development / University of the Third Age Program presented musical performances, choir recitals, and a photography course showcase. These activities provided participants with enjoyable and memorable moments. The program concluded with the presentation of certificates of achievement to the students by the protocol members, followed by the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the volunteer academic staff and the presentation of handmade gifts prepared by the 60+ students.