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ATATÜRK UNIVERSITY CELEBRATES MEDICINE DAY WITH WHITE COATS FOR ACADEMICIANS AND STUDENTS ON MARCH 14

As part of the March 14 Medicine Day, Atatürk University conducted a significant ceremony for students and academics. The National Will Hall of the Cultural Center hosted the event on July 15, which was attended by Atatürk University Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, Secretary General Zafer Aynalı of the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Türkez, and Prof. Dr. Reyhan Keleş of the Faculty of Medicine, Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ufuk Okkay, BAP Coordinator Prof. Dr. Erol Akpınar, academics, physicians, students, and their families.

The traditional program included the presentation of medallions to physicians who had completed 35 to 40 years in their profession, and the granting of robes to scientists who had advanced in their academic titles. Future physicians made their initial steps into the profession during a gown-wearing ceremony for first-year medical school students.

"Medicine is a Sacred Endeavor that Touches the Human Spirit, it is not merely a profession."

At the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, underscored the significance of March 14 Medicine Day as not only a celebration but also a significant day that serves as a reminder to the medical profession of its obligations and dedication to scientific advancements. Hacımüftüoğlu asserted that the white coat ceremony for academics is a testament to the dedication to the universal values of medicine, ethical principles, and scientific research. He further stated, "Medicine is not merely a profession; it is a sacred endeavor that resonates with the human spirit and is perpetually invigorated by scientific progression." Each member of our academic community will persist in their pursuit of humanity and their adherence to the principles of science and conscience. Do not neglect that you are not only carrying knowledge but also ethical responsibility as you don your white coats, which mark your academic honor here today.

“The white coat is a symbol of devotion to science.”

280 first-year students of the Faculty of Medicine made their first steps into the medical profession during the student coat-wearing ceremony that took place in the second portion of the program. Rector Hacımüftüoğlu addressed the students, emphasizing that the white coat is not merely a garment, but also a representation of responsibility, ethical principles, and commitment to science.

"The white coat you are currently donning should be worked not only with knowledge, but also with affection for humanity and ethical accountability." Through the duration of medical education, it is imperative to continue researching, questioning, and learning, not only in clinical practice but also in fundamental sciences. In medicine, errors are not tolerated at any stage, as they are directly associated with human life. With this understanding, I extend my best wishes for your success in your endeavors to serve humanity and science.

At the ceremony, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Prof. Dr. Meltem Alkan Melikoğlu underscored the sacrosanct nature of the medical profession, which necessitates sacrifice, knowledge, and the love of humanity. She reminded the students that medical education should be substantiated by research and practice, in addition to instruction. Melikoğlu expressed his confidence in the achievement of all students, asserting that Atatürk University provides them with a wide range of scientific opportunities.

The students and academicians' enthusiasm was evident in the moments that concluded the gown-wearing ceremony. The participants immortalized this significant day by capturing memento photos following the program.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE – March 14, 2025