A white coat ceremony was held for the students of Marmara University Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, on October 20, 2026, at the Faculty of Science Conference Hall. The ceremony was attended by Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur, Dean of the Faculty of Science Prof. Dr. Ali Rıza Özkaya, Vice Deans Prof. Dr. Soner Çubuk and Prof. Dr. İbrahim İlker Özyiğit as well as numerous faculty members and students.
Rector Okur: “Donning a White Coat Means Taking on a New Responsibility”
Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur highlighted Marmara University’s longstanding academic tradition and its mission to educate future generations, emphasising the importance of university life and belonging to the Marmara community. Noting that the University is a large community active in numerous fields, including science, arts and sports, Rector Okur stated that students’ university years would contribute not only to their professional development but also to the shaping of their character.
Emphasising that academics’ primary responsibility is to equip students with knowledge and maintain the mission of educating individuals, Rector Okur described education as a meaningful responsibility that requires dedication and sacrifice. He noted that donning a white coat symbolises taking on new responsibilities and wished the students every success throughout their academic journey.
Stating that they are always open to student feedback and suggestions, Rector Okur emphasized that the university exists for its students and extended his gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the event.
Dean Özkaya Wishes Students Success
In his address, Dean of the Faculty of Science Prof. Dr. Ali Rıza Özkaya stated that students beginning their undergraduate studies in the Department of Chemistry would receive their education under the guidance of a qualified academic staff. Highlighting the significance of the white coat in chemistry education and laboratory work, , Prof. Dr. Özkaya emphasized that students should focus not merely on receiving a diploma, but on deriving the maximum benefit from courses and scientific research. Prof. Dr. Özkaya also expressed the Department’s and Faculty’s readiness to support students in addressing any challenges they might encounter throughout their studies and wished them success.
Following the opening and protocol speeches, Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur and accompanying protocol members helped the Chemistry Department students put on their coats, sharing their excitement during this symbolic first step into their professional lives.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative group photo session.
