During the  handover ceremony, Prof. Dr. Ömer Çomaklı, who had been the rector of Atatürk University for eight years, handed over the position to Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu.

Prof. Dr. Çomaklı: "My heart belongs to Atatürk University."

Prof. Dr. Ömer Çomaklı, who delivered a farewell address at the handover ceremony conducted at the rector's office, claimed that he dedicated his eight-year tenure to the advancement and prosperity of Atatürk University. Prof. Dr. Çomaklı: "I am grateful to the students, the academic and administrative staff of our university, and the individuals of Erzurum with whom I collaborated during my tenure." We have achieved amazing achievements in collaboration. Atatürk University has consistently served as an exceptional residence for me. I have dedicated many years to my university as a faculty member and a member of this institution. Throughout my tenure, our primary objective has been to cultivate in our students a national identity that is universally minded, knowledgeable, and open-minded, and that enables them to rapidly acclimatise to the challenges and advancements of a world that is constantly evolving and developing. Our objective was to elevate our university from a mere regional education centre, as envisioned by the New Generation University Design and Transformation Project. We have achieved a substantial success that will enhance the brand value of our university in the national and international arena by transforming our university into a research university, in accordance with this vision. I am confident that our university will continue to prosper in the future. I would like to express my gratitude to Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu on this occasion, as I am proudly relinquishing my responsibilities. I reiterate my conviction that  will elevate this flag to new heights and extend my best wishes for his success in his responsibilities," he stated.

Prof. Dr. Hacımüftüoğlu: "I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to assume this responsibility."

In his speech at the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the new rector of Atatürk University, acknowledged the significant responsibility that comes with the position. He stated that the university is deeply rooted and respected. Prof. Dr. Hacımüftüoğlu underscored the significance of Atatürk University, which has been a centre of education for 67 years and has made substantial contributions to the country's higher education by educating countless scientists. He stated, "Atatürk University is an important science centre not only for Erzurum but also for our country." I am honoured and delighted to assume this responsibility as the 17th rector of Atatürk University. We have entered a new era in which we will collaborate to take actions that will propel our university to new heights. I am confident that we will maintain our successful collaboration with our academic and administrative personnel. Dr. "We will continue to take steps that will propel our university even further from the point where Dr. Ömer Çomaklı left off," he stated.

"Together, we will construct a more robust Atatürk University."

Prof. Dr. Hacımüftüoğlu, who declared that the primary objectives for the forthcoming period will be to enhance the quality of education, promote scientific research, and enhance social engagement, stated, "Our primary objective is to guarantee that our students are equipped with the necessary skills to think critically and rationally." In collaboration with our academic and administrative staff, we will exert ourselves to elevate our university to an even more esteemed status on a national and international scale. In this process, we will take measures that will propel Atatürk University even further in the disciplines of science, technology, and culture, with the support and contributions of our valuable members of our university. We will construct the future of our university in collaboration, fostering a strong sense of teamwork. I am cognisant of the importance of each individual's contribution during this voyage, as I have faith and confidence in our university. We will collectively construct a more dynamic, innovative, and resilient Atatürk University as we progress towards the future. I would like to express my gratitude to Prof. Dr. Ömer Çomaklı and his entire team for their service to our university on behalf of myself, all university staff, and our students. I also extend my best wishes to him and his family for their health and well-being.

The ceremony concluded with a memento photo following the mutual presentation of flowers.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE - August 16, 2024