Two days of celebration, pride and joy as KI students graduate
Over two ceremonial and joyful days, KI celebrated students who completed their bachelor's and master's degree programmes. Family members, friends, teachers and students gathered in Aula Medica to mark graduation – an important milestone and the beginning of a new chapter in life.
The weather may not have been at its best. Outside Aula Medica, the wind whipped through the waving flags, but inside the auditorium the atmosphere was considerably warmer. Proud family members and friends filled the Erling Persson hall as the graduation ceremonies opened with a moving string performance by the Rosa Kvartetten.
Following the formal procession led by the flag bearers and student marshals, the ceremony continued with more music from the Rosa Kvartetten. The graduates were then invited onto the stage programme by programme to receive the KI President's well wishes – a significant moment marking the end of their studies at KI.
A special day with friends
Among the excited master's students waiting to take the stage were Alina Veronica Draken and Rebecca Fitton, both graduating from the master's programme in translational physiology and pharmacology.
“It feels really special and exciting to celebrate all the hard work we’ve put in together with our friends,” says Alina Veronica Draken.
“It almost feels unreal. Earlier this week we were sitting in the classroom discussing our dissertations – and today we’re standing here,” says Rebecca Fitton.
The end of one chapter and the beginning of another
In her opening address, President Annika Östman Wernerson emphasised that graduation marks not only the completion of an education but also the beginning of lifelong learning. She highlighted that the world faces major challenges, and that knowledge, commitment and a sense of responsibility are essential for creating positive change.
“Take with you both the knowledge you have gained and the values that KI stands for,” she said as she addressed the audience.
She concluded by reminding students that their relationship with KI does not end at graduation.
“Today’s graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Congratulations, and I wish you every success in the future.”
The Rosa Kvartetten lifted the atmosphere
The programme directors for each degree programme delivered warm and personal speeches to their former students, wishing their new colleagues every success in their future careers and beyond.
After all the names had been called and the graduation envelopes presented, the audience enjoyed a much-appreciated musical performance. Kiralina Salandy sang "Ain’t no mountain high enough" accompanied by the Rosa Kvartetten, whose sparkling stage outfits and musical energy brought an extra sense of celebration to the hall.
The ceremony concluded with an emotional and memorable recessional to the traditional Swedish song "Den blomstertid nu kommer, before the celebrations continued with family, friends and loved ones.
More pictures from the ceremonies
