The "Honorary Doctorate Award Ceremony for Prof. Dr. Rustam Khalmuradov, Rector of Samarkand State University, Uzbekistan" was held on Wednesday, April 30, at the Ibrahim Üzümcü Conference Hall on Marmara University's Göztepe Campus.
The ceremony commenced with a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, attended by Marmara University Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kurt, members of the University Senate, academics, and students. Following a musical performance by the Marmara University Turkish Music Ensemble, conducted by Prof. Dr. Mustafa Uslu, Head of the Department of Fine Arts Education at the Atatürk Faculty of Education, Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kurt delivered the opening remarks.
Beginning his speech by emphasizing the significance of Turkish-Uzbek brotherhood, Rector Kurt stated: “Today, we have gathered for a profoundly meaningful and esteemed ceremony on behalf of our university, witnessing one of the finest examples of Turkish-Uzbek brotherhood in the fields of education and science. Rector Khalmuradov is a distinguished scholar whose valuable contributions to education and his impactful academic work at the international level have earned him great respect not only in Uzbekistan but across a broad geography. Thanks to his visionary leadership, the relations among Turkish universities have become more institutionalized, structured, and productive. His contributions to the field of political science and international relations have had significant impacts in both academia and practice, inspiring new horizons for young researchers.”
Rector Kurt went on to highlight Prof. Dr. Khalmuradov's distinguished role in strengthening Turkey-Uzbekistan relations and advancing education and scientific diplomacy:
"Under his leadership, the collaborations conducted have not only strengthened our institutions but also deepened the bonds of affection between our peoples. Following a unanimous decision by our University Senate, Professor Rustam Khalmuradov will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Political Science and International Relations. This prestigious accolade is in recognition of his significant contributions to the global scientific community and the academic excellence he has brought to the field. On behalf of our university, we extend our deepest gratitude to you, esteemed Prof. Dr. Khalmuradov, for your invaluable contributions to the scientific and educational landscape of Uzbekistan, the strengthening of the enduring friendship between our two nations, and the advancement of Samarkand State University."
Rector Kurt concluded his remarks by expressing his hope that this honorary doctorate will serve as an inspiration for future academic collaborations and help carry the deep-rooted friendship between Turkey and Uzbekistan into the centuries ahead.
Following the reading of the official Senate decision by Marmara University Senate Member Prof. Dr. Okan Yeşilot, Marmara University Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kurt formally conferred the title of Honorary Doctor of Political Science and International Relations upon Prof. Dr. Rustam Khalmuradov, Rector of Samarkand State University.
Expressing his deep appreciation to be at Marmara University, Prof. Dr. Khalmuradov began his speech by stating: “I am honored to receive this honorary doctorate degree, graciously presented by our esteemed Rector. This recognition is not only a personal honor for me but also a tribute to my nation and country.”
Rector Khalmuradov then emphasised the significance of shared academic objectives within the Turkic world. "I have had the privilege of engaging in numerous conversations with my dear friend and the wise figure of the Turkic world, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar. Both he and I are firmly of the opinion that the Turkic world must make rapid progress in science and technology. We must educate our youth in the importance of loyalty to our national values and traditions. It is insufficient to merely follow in the footsteps of technologically advanced nations; we must strive to surpass them. While this is undoubtedly a challenging task, it is one that we must succeed in. Otherwise, the issues we face today will persist into the future. To realise this shared vision, the Turkic world must unite — its universities and institutions engaged in technology must collaborate, organise, and seek collective solutions to common challenges."
Rector Khalmuradov concluded his remarks by expressing his hopes for the realization of the Turkic world's future ambitions: "I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality and the kind attention shown to me today."
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo session featuring participants and members of the Marmara University Senate.
