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Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU) celebrated its 25th cohort graduates in a magnificent graduation ceremony filled with great enthusiasm and pride. The event was held at the Chyngyz Aitmatov Campus Open-Air Sports Field as part of the 2025–2026 academic year.

One of the leading higher education institutions of the Turkic World, KTMU hosted the ceremony with the participation of the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Bishkek Dr. Mekin Mustafa Kemal Ökem, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Bishkek Latif Seyfaddin Oğlu Gandilov, Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan; Deputy Rector Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev, Vice-Rectors, Secretary-General, Deans and Directors of Faculties and Vocational  High Schools, academic and administrative staff, association presidents,members of the press, and students’ families.

The Legacy of Manas Echoed at the Ceremony

The ceremony began with the graduation procession of students, followed by the national anthems of Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye. Afterwards, a selected passage from the Epic of Manas —one of the most significant cultural heritages of the Turkic world was performed. This moment added profound meaning to the ceremony, connecting Kyrgyz oral tradition with the academic and cultural identity of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University.

Rector Ceylan: “The Value of Universities is Measured by the People They Educate”

Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan emphasized that the university not only provides academic knowledge but also aims to instill a strong life culture. He highlighted their student-centered and student-friendly approach, noting that the university offers free education opportunities, rich campus facilities, accessible and high-quality meal services, healthcare support, and social spaces that ensure students feel safe, comfortable, and valued. He stated that the value of universities is not measured by their buildings or titles, but by the individuals they educate and the ideas they produce. Emphasizing that the core mission of higher education institutions is to raise individuals who will shape the future, Rector Ceylan noted that KTMU has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. He added that the university has become a prestigious institution that actively contributes to global academic discourse and ranks among the world’s top 1,000 universities.

“Manas University Has Become a Global Research University”

Prof. Dr. Ceylan stated that in the past five years, thanks to work in strategic fields such as artificial intelligence, health sciences, digital communication, and sustainable development, KTMU has evolved from a regionally recognized institution into a strong research university contributing to global academic discussions. He also highlighted the importance of adapting to the digital age, noting that the university has launched new programs such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering, as well as Cybersecurity Analysis and Operations.

“Our Graduates Are Representatives of a Shared Culture and Brotherhood Ideal”

Addressing the graduates, Rector Ceylan emphasized that they are not only university graduates but also representatives of a deep-rooted tradition, shared culture, and strong ideal of brotherhood. He stressed that a KTMU diploma carries responsibility beyond being an academic certificate, as graduates are also ambassadors of the strong bridge between Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan.

“Strong Generations Are Raised on Strong Families”

Prof. Dr. Ceylan added that every task graduates will undertake in the shared future of the Turkic World will enrich this great heritage. He underlined that while societies are shaped in laboratories, libraries, and classrooms, their foundation is built within the family. He stated, “Strong generations are raised on strong families.” He concluded by reminding graduates that they will always remain part of the Manas family: “Our door and our hearts will always remain open to you. Wherever you are, never forget that you are part of the Manas family.”

Deputy Rector Ibraev: “Every Graduation Opens the Door to New Beginnings”

Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev stated that university years are a unique period in which youth develop in knowledge, experience, and character. He emphasized that every graduation may seem like an end but actually opens the door to new beginnings. He highlighted that success is built on perseverance, determination, and tireless effort, encouraging students never to give up on their goals and to continuously improve themselves.

“As Your Knowledge Grows, Let Your Humanity Grow as Well”

Prof. Dr. Ibraev noted that KTMU has educated thousands of youth throughout its nearly 30-year history. He emphasized that education is not limited to academic achievement, stating: “As your knowledge grows, let your humanity grow as well.” He stressed the importance of graduates combining knowledge with human values to become individuals who benefit their societies and countries.

Ambassador Ökem: “Manas University Is the Shining Star of the Turkic World”

Ambassador Dr. Mekin Mustafa Kemal Ökem congratulated the graduates and emphasized KTMU’s importance for the Turkic World. He stated that the university is not only a shared institution of Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan but also the shining star of the entire Turkic world. He expressed pride in seeing KTMU graduates across Kyrgyzstan and encouraged them to cherish their university and campus. Concluding his speech, he said: “The world is now waiting for you. May your path and fortune be bright.”

Ambassador Gandilov: “Your Effort and Determination Brought You Here”

Azerbaijan’s Ambassador Latif Seyfaddin Oğlu Gandilov congratulated the graduates, stating that their years of effort, determination, and dedication had brought them to this proud moment. He encouraged them to transform the knowledge and values gained at KTMU into future success for their countries and humanity. During the ceremony, he was awarded the 30th Anniversary Service Medal for his contributions to Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University.

Cultural Performances Elevated the Celebration

The oath ceremony of the new graduates was followed by a vibrant performance of “Carkı” by the Turkic World Orchestra, creating a lively atmosphere. Cultural performances by the Manas Girls Dance Group, Dastan Komuz Players Group, Kız Kuumay, and Kız Kıyal dance ensembles added color and energy to the event.

Top Students Honored

Awards were presented to faculty and high school top students by deans and directors. University-wide top achievers received special recognition, with emotional scenes as families applauded them with pride.

University Top Graduate: Sezim Sydygalieva

Sezim Sydygalieva, a Mathematics student from the Faculty of Science, graduated with a perfect 4.00 GPA, becoming the university’s top graduate. She marked her achievement by placing her name plaque on the traditional graduation monument. She thanked her professors and family, emphasizing that her success was the result of collective effort. Her family expressed gratitude to the university administration and academic staff, sharing their pride and joy.

University Ranking Achievements

The second place was shared by Begimai Nurdinova (Chinese Language and Literature, Faculty of Humanities) and Tologon Sabyrbekov (Radio, Television and Cinema, Faculty of Communication), both with a 3.99 GPA. Third place was shared by Nuriya Bakıtbek Kızı (Guidance and Psychological Counseling, Faculty of Education), Aygerim Karıbayeva (Economics, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences), and İslam Canışbekov (Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering), all with a 3.96 GPA.

“My Effort: For My Country, For My Nation!”

The ceremony reached its emotional peak as graduates collectively declared: “My effort: for my country, for my nation!” The throwing of caps into the sky symbolized joy and achievement, accompanied by applause from families, academicians, and guests. Following the official program, celebrations continued with concerts on campus. The 25th graduation ceremony concluded with unforgettable moments of music, joy, and festivity.