On 21 February, the White Coat Ceremony was held for the first time at the University of Pécs Faculty of Pharmacy. Third-year pharmacy and second-year biotechnology students received the white coats symbolizing their profession during the ceremony. The aim of the event is to recognise the students and motivate them to continue their studies.
The tradition-forming day initiated by the students was held in the Dr. Romhányi György Aula of the UP Medical School. Dr. András Fittler, Dean of the UP Faculty of Pharmacy, illustrated the significance of the event as an allegory of a journey in his opening speech.
“This White Coat Ceremony symbolizes a turning point in your journey to become professionals. Together, we celebrate your commitment and efforts in reaching this milestone. It is also a recognition that you can do it - for yourselves and for those around you. You are on the right path. The white coat is a tangible representation of a reliable professional. It indicates academic authority, purity, and integrity. It symbolizes compassion, commitment to patient care, and the well-being of society,” said the Dean in his speech.
Dr. Zsuzsanna Rozmer, Vice-Dean for Education and Student Welfare delivered the closing speech of the ceremony. She explained that the students have arrived at the halfway point of their studies, have completed their basic courses, and the knowledge they have acquired is now converging with science, practice, and professional identity.
“As a pharmacist, you will not just dispense or develop drugs - you will be the link between medicine and patients. Wearing the white coat is a symbol to remind you that using your knowledge and skills is not only an opportunity, but also a duty,” the Vice-Dean pointed out.
After the speeches, the students walked one by one to their teachers, who presented them with their white coats and congratulated them with a handshake. The students returned to their seats with smiles on their faces and continued to celebrate this significant milestone with their families.
“The white coat is not only a symbol of professionalism, but also a reminder of the challenges that the profession expects of us. For example, to contribute to the advancement of scientific and clinical life, and to use our knowledge for the well-being of humanity. I am sure that the ceremony was an inspiration for all my fellow students and that we will continue to study, research, and even teach with more conscientiousness,” said Levente Láng, a second-year biotechnology student who put on the white coat together with his fellow students on this special day.
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Photos: Dávid Verébi