Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

TOBB ETU 2013-2014 education year graduation and opening of the 2014-2015 education year ceremony was held at the TOBB ETU Sports Hall.

Speaking at the opening of the ceremony, Hisarcıklıoğlu reported that the university has graduated its 7^th term students.

Emphasizing that one of their most proud accomplishments is the foundation of TOBB ETU, Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that investment in education is the greatest investment into the country.

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that he viewed universities as chimney-less factories of the highest benefit to the people, “If one day I should pen my memoirs, the university will have the place of honor.”

Stating that they have moved steadily towards their goals since the foundation of the university, Hisarcıklıoğlu reported that TOBB ETU has become one of the most preferred universities in Turkey.

Reporting that 16 of the top 100 students in the university exam have elected to attend TOBB ETU, Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the university’s student profile is increasing each year.

Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu drew attention to TOBB ETU’s high position in all relevant lists, said, “I can proudly say that despite the fact that this is a very new university, it has gained a lot of ground. Today, TOBB ETU stands alone in bringing together theory and practice. Our university tells you to put your knowledge into practice.”

- “Don’t be swept up in fear or obsession”

Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “In this day and age, you can’t expect to be successful if you can’t explain yourself. You must know how to address your superiors and subordinates.

To the youth I say: Do not trap yourselves in narrow mindsets, do not be swept up in fear or obsession. Not just the future but also the present belongs to you. You will put your mark on today.

We have a golden opportunity to rise to the level of modern countries. If we want to be a better, stronger, more prosperous country, we can’t limit our youth; we must liberate them, encourage them. We must be as wings to their feet, not shackles. We will encourage them towards enterprise with all the power that we hold.”

- “Make it a principle to be a dutiful child”

Emphasizing that the greatest contribution to the success of children is that of parents, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “This is their day of pride. They are enjoying the happiness of having raised you in the best way possible. They have a lot invested in you. Make it a principle to be a dutiful child throughout your lives.”

Thanking the academic personnel and the staff of the university, Hisarcıklıoğlu urged the students to join the alumni association.

Following a speech by TOBB ETU Rector Deputy Prof. Dr. Adem Şahin, he and Hisarcıklıoğlu presented the 16 top students in the top 100 of the university exam who elected to attend TOBB ETU with gifts as well as presenting the valedictorians Seher Deniz Temiz and Kadir Yüce as well as Esra Buran and Cansu Ağralı with plaques.