123 students graduate from Celal Bayar Minority High School in Gümülcine
Celal Bayar Minority High School in Gümülcine bid farewell to its graduating class of 2024–2025 in an emotional and festive ceremony held in Yassıköy. A total of 123 students received their diplomas, marking the end of their secondary education and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
The event took place at a local event hall in Yassıköy and was attended by graduates, their families, teachers, and community members. The ceremony began with the graduates’ entrance accompanied by music, creating a vibrant and heartfelt atmosphere.
The opening speech was delivered by Mehmet Emin Ahmet, Vice President of the School Committee of Celal Bayar Minority High School. In his address, Ahmet congratulated the students and their families and emphasized the significance of staying true to one’s roots while embracing the future.
“As members of the Western Thrace Muslim Turkish Minority, you may face unique challenges,” Ahmet stated. “But your cultural heritage and identity will always guide you. Your strength lies in preserving your values while moving forward with confidence and unity.”
Ahmet concluded by encouraging students to uphold dignity, compassion, and a strong moral compass, emphasizing the importance of community, solidarity, and justice, especially in the face of global injustices.
Following Ahmet’s remarks, School Principal İsmail Yücel addressed the audience, expressing pride in the students’ perseverance and success:
“Today marks the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new one. You laughed, cried, and overcame many obstacles throughout your school life,” Yücel said. “Now, a bright future awaits. Real success is not just about passing exams but about becoming kind, thoughtful, and responsible individuals who contribute to society.”
Yücel extended his gratitude to the parents and teaching staff, acknowledging their essential role in guiding and supporting the students.
Assistant Principal Lakaki Polihronia also took the stage to congratulate the graduates. In her speech, she praised the determination and resilience of the students throughout their academic journey:
“This is not only the end of a chapter but also the beginning of a new one filled with challenges and friendships. You have overcome many difficulties and are now ready for the next step,” she said.
The ceremony concluded with words of encouragement and best wishes for the students’ future endeavors. Although awards for top-performing graduates were scheduled to be presented, the final list was not yet available. The school committee announced that the awards would be distributed at a later date.
The event ended with cheers, applause, and emotional farewells, marking a proud moment for the Celal Bayar Minority High School community.
