Enthusiastic Graduation Ceremony at Bilecik Sheikh Edebali University 2026

The graduation ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year at Bilecik Sheikh Edebali University (BŞEÜ) was held with indescribable excitement at the university stadium. The event, held on June 30, 2026, hosted thousands of students who, after years of academic effort, prepared to enter new fields of professional life [1].

Ceremony Held in an Atmosphere of Pride and Joy The day's program began with a magnificent parade of professors and graduates. Following a moment of silence and the playing of the Turkish National Anthem, a film introducing the university's achievements was screened. Faik Oktay Sözer, the Governor of Bilecik, emphasized in his speech that Sheikh Edebali University has become a powerful institution through its academic successes since its founding [2]. Addressing the graduates, he said: "You are now not only the hope of your families but also the hope of our country. The future of Turkey will be built on the shoulders of young people like you who are researchers, inquisitive, and committed to national and spiritual values" [1].

Rector's Speech and the Legacy of Sheikh Edebali Professor Dr. Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı, the Rector of BŞEÜ, expressed pride in raising a new generation and noted the significance of 2026. He pointed out that this year coincides with the 700th anniversary of the passing of Sheikh Edebali, the spiritual architect of the Ottoman State [1]. Kaplancıklı stated: "Our university seeks not only to equip students with technical knowledge but also to raise individuals with social responsibility and cultural richness. As graduates of a university that bears the name of Sheikh Edebali, you carry a great legacy of justice and service to society" [2].

Honoring Top Students and the Symbolic Cap Toss In another part of the ceremony, top students from the faculties were honored. Mukaddes Erdoğan, a graduate of Molecular Biology and Genetics who ranked first in the entire university, delivered a speech on behalf of the students and engraved her name on the graduation memorial plaque [1]. Officials such as the Gendarmerie Training Commander, the Provincial Police Chief, and other local authorities attended the ceremony [2].

The peak of excitement occurred when students collectively tossed their caps into the air. This symbolic moment, accompanied by continuous applause from families, marked the official end of their studies at Bilecik University. The grand celebration concluded with a graduation concert, creating unforgettable memories for students and their families who had come to Bilecik from various cities across Turkey [1][3].