Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) sent off its 2025–2026 Academic Year Spring Semester graduates into the future with the traditional Farewell to the City Walk through the historic streets of Famagusta. Hundreds of EMU graduates, dressed in their academic gowns and carrying torches, joined the procession, filling the city with graduation excitement. Once again, Famagusta witnessed one of the most meaningful displays of the strong bond between the University and the city. EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren accompanied with students during the procession.

The procession commenced at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, 6 July 2026, from the Famagusta Development Academy (MGA) and continued through the historic streets to the Walled City of Famagusta. Carrying torches and dressed in their academic gowns, the graduates marched through the city as residents and visitors joined the celebration with warm applause. Lasting approximately one hour, the procession transformed Famagusta into a vibrant celebration of youth, hope, and achievement, creating a memorable graduation atmosphere throughout the city.

Following the procession, which concluded at Namık Kemal Square, a folk dance performance and musical entertainment added further color and excitement to the graduation celebrations. Joined by their families, academics, and friends, the graduates shared one of the most memorable moments of their university lives.

Addressing the participants, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç commenced with words by saying, “Good evening Eastern Mediterranean, good evening Famagusta”. Emphasizing the vibrant environment and excitement, Prof. Dr. Kılıç continued; “An unforgettable night and an incredible atmosphere. It had been many years since this square had witnessed such a remarkable sense of unity”.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç emphasized that the Farewell Walk is far more than a graduation celebration, describing it as a long-standing tradition that symbolizes the strong bond forged over the years between Eastern Mediterranean University and the city of Famagusta.

Addressing the students, Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç stated; “Today, you are not only celebrating your graduation, but also bidding farewell to Famagusta, the city that has been your home throughout these years. The friendships you have formed, the memories you have created, and the values you have gained here will remain with you for the rest of your lives. Wherever in the world your paths may take you, I wholeheartedly believe that you will preserve this bond as voluntary ambassadors of Eastern Mediterranean University and Famagusta”.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç also expressed his gratitude to the academics and families, thanking all academic and administrative staff who had contributed to the students’ education and congratulating the families who had supported their children with unwavering dedication throughout their journey.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç encouraged the graduates to let science, ethical values, and compassion guide them throughout their professional lives, emphasizing that their true success would be measured not only by their careers but also by the positive impact they make on society.

Held annually as a cherished tradition, the Farewell to the City Walk once again highlighted the strong sense of belonging shared between Eastern Mediterranean University and the city of Famagusta. Carrying torches through the city’s historic streets, hundreds of EMU graduates took part in one of the most meaningful traditions of their university experience, bidding an emotional farewell to both their alma mater and the city they had called home during their years of study.