According to the press release issued by the Directorate of Press and Public Relations of Near East University, Vice Rector of Near East University Prof. Dr. Şenol Bektaş, Dean of NEU Faculty of Theology Prof. Dr. Mehmet Mahfuz Söyelemez, Near East University Academicians students and guests attended the 4th term graduation ceremony of the NEU Faculty of Theology.

It was pointed out that the ceremony had begun with a minute’s silence in memory and honour of Great Turkish Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Leader of Turkish Cypriots Dr. Fazıl Küçük, memory of Founding President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Rauf R. Denktaş and martyrs; which was followed by the national anthem.

Then, the Quran tilawat was carried out by the Near East University Faculty of Theology Graduate, İbrahim Tığçen. Later, this was followed by an opening speech made on behalf of the graduates by Mansur Adanır.

Prof. Dr. Bektaş: “This is a holy day for all our students to graduate today!”
A speech by Vice Rector of Near East University, Prof. Dr. Şenol Bektaş, was also made where he expressed that day was a holy day for the students graduating. He added that students who have worked hard to expand their knowledge were now ready to share their knowledge with the community.

Prof. Dr. Bektaş: “Why did Near East University feel the need to establish a Faculty of Theology?”
During his speech Prof. Dr. Bektaş expressed that every time they needed to make a speech, they liked to refer to the past; to the question “Why did Near East University feel the need to establish a Faculty of Theology and what are our expectations from you?” He further explained that during the 2000s there was a meaningless dispute regarding religion among the community; such that the community was forced to pick a side. Furthermore, the media contributed to this dispute. In this regard, the Founding Rector of the Near East University Dr. Suat İ. Günsel wanted to put an end to this dispute due to his foresight that this dispute could cause further conflict in the community; and therefore, decided to establish the faculty of theology.

Prof. Dr. Mahfuz Söylemez: “We are rather happy and honoured to give the 4th term graduates from our faculty!”
Dean of Faculty of Theology of Near East University Prof. Dr. Mehmet Mahfuz Söyelemez stated that the Faculty of Theology was founded in 2011 and added that they were rather happy and honoured to be giving their 4th term graduates. Prof. Dr. Söylemez expressed that recently new interventions were being carried out at the faculty. A preparatory year was opened and by next year, a master’s programme will also be initiated. Thus, he pointed out that the faculty was constantly progression t o a better status. Moreover, he stated that they were very happy and rather proud since they were raising highly competent graduates; as they believed that the graduates of today will be leaders of the community of the future. We have made great efforts to educate you on the religion of Allah; and of the path that has been shaped by Prophet Muhammed. Prof. Dr. Söylemez ended his words by expressing gratitude to the Founding Rector of Dr. Suat İ. Günsel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Near East University Assoc. Prof. Dr. İrfan S. Günsel, to Vice Rectors of NEU, authorities, the NEU Academicians and said may god be with you.