Kocaeli's First Psychology Graduates: Shining in Third Bachelor's Degree

A Milestone in Kocaeli's Higher Education Kocaeli Health and Technology University (KOSTÜ) graduated its first group of psychology department students in a grand ceremony in July 2026. This department, established four years ago as the only psychology department in the province, has now taken a significant step in meeting the region's mental health needs by training its first specialists [3]. Dr. Ali Ruhan Çelik, Head of the Psychology Department, emphasized during the ceremony that the curriculum was designed according to the latest technological standards and modern societal needs to ensure graduates are immediately ready for the professional world [2].

Afra Koniali: A Story of Perseverance and Endless Learning The shining star of this year's graduation ceremony was Afra Koniali. Working as a research assistant at the Kocaeli University (KOÜ) Faculty of Theology, she successfully completed her third undergraduate degree in Psychology while simultaneously writing her doctoral thesis [1]. Koniali not only ranked first in her department but was also named the overall valedictorian of the university for the 2025-2026 academic year. In her speech, she stated that her goal in studying this field was to better understand herself and those around her, believing that psychological knowledge is essential for everyone in today's world [3].

The Importance of Psychology in Modern Society In another part of his speech, Dr. Çelik pointed to the importance of having expert psychologists in the field. He noted that the KOSTÜ Psychology Department, with the support of university management and the round-the-clock efforts of faculty members, has established itself as a prestigious scientific center in Kocaeli [2]. According to him, these graduates will now serve as professional experts in various mental health sectors across the city and country, which will have a direct impact on improving the quality of life for citizens [1].

A Celebration for the Future The graduation ceremony was held in an atmosphere full of enthusiasm, attended by university officials, families, and students. The presentation of awards to Afra Koniali by the university management was one of the emotional highlights of the event, representing the honoring of academic efforts beyond traditional boundaries [3]. This event marks not only the end of a study period for the students but also the beginning of a new chapter for the development of human sciences in the industrial and scientific hub of Kocaeli.