International master’s students from across the globe celebrated at 10th graduation ceremony

It was a time for celebration and pride as Aula Nordica on Campus Umeå was nearly filled to capacity with 280 master’s degree students from 52 countries, along with approximately 600 guests. Vice-Chancellor Hans Adolfsson delivered the graduation address and handed out congratulatory scrolls to every master’s recipient.  He shared words of praise, reflection, and called attention to the importance of critical thinking and academic freedom.

You will now become a vital part of society, utilizing and implementing what you have learned at Umeå University.

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ImageMattias Pettersson

“You have all gained new insights and perspectives in an international environment.  You will now become a vital part of society, utilizing and implementing what you have learned at Umeå University. This is what we have been striving for at the university for the last 59 years. It is my sincere hope that all the things you have achieve here Umeå will be a foundation for things to come,” said Hans Adolfsson, Vice-Chancellor of Umeå University.

This year's student speaker was Amy Nwoku, who has studied in the Master's programme in Public Health with a specialization in Health Economics. She was nominated by her department to share her fond memories and educational journey as a medical doctor from Nigeria to postgraduate studies at Umeå University.

The best part of learning process was that I always felt heard. The transformation of my skills, knowledge and thinking has been so profound.

Amy Nwoku delivered the student speech at Graduation Ceremony 2024 to his fellow graduates and hundreds of guests.

ImageMattias Pettersson

“From the moment I arrived in Umeå, I felt welcomed. I did not just feel at home at my department, I gained a family. I can confidently say that the Public Health programme at Umeå University is unparalleled. The best part of learning process was that I always felt heard. The transformation of my skills, knowledge and thinking has been so profound,” said Amy Nwoku.

The alumni speaker was Kalle Grill, Associate Professor at the Department of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies, who shared philosophical ideas and encouraged all graduates to take the time to celebrate, relax and feel proud about their accomplishments.

Associate Professor Kalle Grill delivered the alumni speech at the Graduation Ceremony 2024 in Aula Nordica.

ImageMattias Pettersson

You should not only find something that you enjoy and rewarding, but something that is important.

“You should not only find something that you enjoy and rewarding, but something that is important. Not just for yourself but for the world. My advice is to be more emotional about finding your values and to ask yourself what you really love and appreciate in this world,” said Kalle Grill.

The ceremony also included three vocal performances by members of the Umeå Student Choir, who have been well established in the cultural life of Umeå since the early 1960s. At the conclusion of the ceremony, there was a mingle and refreshments where students and guests could also take photos.

The Graduation Ceremony for International Master's Programmes is organized by the International Office.