Plestia Alaqad, a 2022 graduate of Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Faculty of Communication, Department of New Media and Journalism, award-winning journalist and author met with EMU students as part of the “Career Talks” event series organized by EMU Student Development, Events and Sports Affairs Directorate. Recognized internationally for her reporting centered on war and human experiences, Alaqad spoke to participants about her experiences in journalism, addressing topics such as media ethics, field-based storytelling, and the impact of digital media in shaping narratives. Said event took place on Monday, 4 May 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Mustafa Afşin Ersoy Hall.
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay, EMU Vicer Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, Dean of EMU Faculty of Communication Prof. Dr. Metin Ersoy, Rectorate Coordinators, faculty members and many students attended the event.
“Extremely Valuable in Terms of Journalism”
The opening remarks of the event were delivered by Prof. Dr. Metin Ersoy, Dean of the EMU Faculty of Communication. In his speech, Prof. Dr. Ersoy expressed the university’s pride in welcoming Plestia Alaqad, a graduate of EMU, and thanked her for accepting the invitation to meet with students and share her professional experiences. Prof. Dr. Ersoy highlighted the importance of the reports and content Alaqad shared from the field, particularly during the conflict that erupted in Gaza in 2023. He underlined that her ability to shed light on realities often absent from mainstream media coverage carries great importance for the field of journalism. Emphasizing the growing need for accurate information and trustworthy field reporting in the era of artificial intelligence, Prof. Dr. Ersoy stated that Alaqad’s commitment to documenting and revealing the truth, rather than remaining silent, offers meaningful inspiration to aspiring journalists. He concluded by expressing his hopes for a more peaceful world and extended his appreciation to Alaqad for her contributions.
“Alumni Are Among the Most Valuable Assets of Universities”
In her remarks, SEMU Vice Rector for Studentd Affairs Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu highlighted that alumni represent one of the greatest strengths of universities. She noted that graduates carry the values they gain during their education into the wider world, strengthen the reputation of their universities, and establish a meaningful bridge between academic life and professional careers. Prof. Dr. Zorlu emphasized the significance of sustaining close relationships with alumni, stating that platforms fostering communication and cooperation both support graduates and provide motivation and inspiration for current students. She added that a well-established alumni network helps universities become more united, stronger, and more prepared for future challenges. At the end of her speech, Prof. Dr. Zorlu expressed their pride in hosting such a distinguished graduate on campus once again.
“A Matter of Great Pride”
Also delivering a speech at the event, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay stated that welcoming a graduate of EMU back to the university was both meaningful and a matter of great pride. Referring to the ongoing developments in Gaza, Dr. Uluçay noted that he has been following the situation with great sadness, emphasizing that wars affect societies not only physically and politically, but also through deep and lasting psychological impacts. Speaking from the perspective of someone who has personally witnessed the consequences of war in Cyprus, Dr. Uluçay underlined the importance of peace, dialogue, and constructive approaches in achieving lasting regional stability. He further stated that sustainable peace can only be established through cooperation and mutual understanding. Concluding his speech, Dr. Uluçay emphasized the importance of maintaining hope even in difficult times and expressed his wish for a more peaceful and stable future.
“A Valuable Platform Connecting Students with Distinguished Professionals”
In his remarks, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç described the “Career Talks” series as a significant initiative that brings students together with accomplished figures from different professional fields. He stated that, through its international environment and strong commitment to academic excellence, EMU seeks to foster critical thinking skills and a broader global outlook among its students. Prof. Dr. Kılıç also highlighted the international attention gained by Plestia Alaqad through her reporting centered on war and human experiences. He noted that her insights into journalistic ethics and the role of digital media would provide meaningful inspiration and guidance for students. At the end of his speech, Prof. Dr. Kılıç underlined that truth and courage have the ability to create change in the world and stated that they were pleased to host Alaqad once again at EMU.
Following the opening remarks, Plestia Alaqad met with students in a discussion session moderated by EMU Digital and Strategic Marketting Office Coordinator Assist. Prof. Dr. Raziye Nevzat. Throughout the event, Alaqad spoke about her experiences in the field of journalism and shared observations from the regions where she has reported. Drawing particularly on her coverage from conflict zones and her focus on human-centered stories, she addressed issues related to journalistic ethics, the pursuit of accurate information, and the growing impact of digital media. In addition to responding to students’ questions, Alaqad shared inspiring reflections on her professional journey, offering participants valuable insights and broader perspectives on journalism. The event concluded with Hasan Kılıç presenting Alaqad with a silver plaque in appreciation of her contributions and participation.
A Visit to EMU Rector Prior to the Event
Prior to the event, Plestia Alaqad paid a courtesy visit to EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan in his office. The meeting was also attended by EMU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, EMU Faculty of Communication Dean Prof. Dr. Metin Ersoy, EMU Student Development, Events and Sports Affairs Director Cemal Kılıç, and EMU Digital and Strategic Marketing Office Coordinator Assist. Prof. Dr. Raziye Nevzat.
During the visit, Alaqad stated that she was very pleased and excited to return to EMU as a speaker, emphasizing that the education she received at the university had a significant impact on her professional journey. Prof. Dr. Kılıç, in turn, expressed their happiness at hosting a successful EMU graduate once again and noted that they have been proudly following Alaqad’s accomplishments. The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts, as Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented Alaqad with a gift unique to Cyprus and EMU, while Alaqad presented the Rector with a signed copy of her book The Eyes of Gaza”.