OVERVIEW of EMU 2015/16 Academic Year Commencement speech by TRNC President Mustafa Akıncı

Eastern Mediterranean University’s 2015 – 2016 Academic Year Opening Ceremony took place at Mustafa Afşin Ersoy Hall at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, 13 October 2015. During the opening ceremony, President of the TRNC Mustafa Akıncı delivered the first lesson of the year entitled “The Place of Universities within Cyprus Problem”.

Prior to the Opening Ceremony, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Osam welcomed President Akıncı at the Rector’s Office. Commencing with a moment of silence and the national anthem, the ceremony continued with EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Osam’s opening address. In his speech, Prof. Dr. Osam commemorated all those who lost their lives in the recent terrorist attack in Ankara and stated that they condemn terrorism and terrorist acts regardless of their purpose. Prof. Dr. Osam also put forth that since its establishment, Eastern Mediterranean University has achieved a lot in the fulfillment of its academic, social and legal responsibilities. At the end of his speech, Prof. Dr. Osam wished everyone a peaceful 2015-2016 academic year filled with high quality achievements. Following Prof. Dr. Osam, President of the TRNC Mustafa Akıncı delivered the first lesson of the year.

Akıncı also commemorated all those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack in Ankara and stated that the TRNC community mourns for the victims. Akıncı added that for a long time, there has been a search for peace in Cyprus and every passing year dynamics change against a possible solution. Talking about the negotiation process and main headings of discussion in Cyprus negotiations, Akıncı expressed his hope for an interactive process. Akıncı also highlighted the important place of universities in Cyprus conflict as academic studies play an important role in the peace process. Following the first lesson of the year, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Osam presented a plaque of appreciation to the President. After the question-answer part, the ceremony ended with a cocktail.

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Credit: EMU