Graduation Ceremony at Bayburt University; From Youthful Enthusiasm to the Determination of a 75-Year-Old Graduate

Ceremony Held at Busenaz Sürmeneli Sports Hall

Bayburt University held a grand graduation ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year on June 15, 2026. The ceremony, held at the Busenaz Sürmeneli Sports Hall, hosted thousands of students, their families, and prominent provincial officials [1]. The atmosphere of the hall was filled with the enthusiasm of students who, after years of effort, were ready to enter new stages of life. The presence of Bayburt Governor Mustafa Eldivan and Mayor Mete Memiş alongside the academic staff emphasized the importance of this event for the region [2].

Veysel Gider; A Symbol of Will and Lifelong Learning

The highlight and most attractive part of this year's ceremony was the graduation of Veysel Gider, a 75-year-old researcher and writer. Mr. Gider, who began his studies in the History Department of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the age of 71, successfully graduated after four years [3]. Previously known as a local journalist and columnist, he proved that age is just a number. During his studies, Gider not only pursued academic courses diligently but also authored a book titled "A Short Method in Historiography" [1][5]. In an interview, he stated that his goal was not just to receive a degree, but that his love for science and deepening his knowledge led him down this path.

Rector's Speech and Honoring Top Students

Professor Dr. Mutlu Türkmen, Rector of Bayburt University, congratulated the graduates in his speech and emphasized the university's scientific and qualitative growth in recent years [4]. Referring to Veysel Gider's success story, he called him a role model for youth and a symbol of the "lifelong learning" motto [1]. Following the ceremony, top students from various departments were honored with certificates of appreciation and gifts. The Rector noted that Bayburt University has now become a center for knowledge production and value creation in the region [6].

The Moment of Tossing Caps and the Start of a New Chapter

The ceremony reached its peak with the traditional custom of tossing graduation caps into the air. Students celebrated the end of this period of their lives while singing university anthems [2]. For many of these young people, Bayburt University has been not only a place to acquire knowledge but also an environment for character growth and creating lasting social bonds. The families of the students, who came from various cities in Turkey to attend the ceremony, witnessed their children's success with tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces [3][7]. This ceremony once again demonstrated that higher education in cities like Bayburt plays a key role in the social and cultural dynamics of society.