Dr. Núria Arís, the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Education, opened the ceremony by congratulating the new teachers. “The essence of the true vocation and professionalism of teachers is their commitment to others”, she reminded them. She also encouraged them to keep a positive attitude. “Hardship, which is always present, is an opportunity and a challenge to grow”, she said. Finally, she added that they would always have a place at the university to share concerns, pursue educational innovation and continue their education.

Ramón Flecha, the keynote speaker, then congratulated the students for having chosen a faculty based on excellence. “In the near future, we will only be able to do our job and maintain our professional image if we’re able to explain to the parents the scientific evidence behind what we do with their children”, he reminded the new graduates. “The theory of dialogic learning shows that if we take proper advantage of the diversity of our interactions, we can ensure that we provide up-to-date, high-quality training throughout our professional careers”.

The Dean of the Faculty of Education closed the ceremony by encouraging the new teachers to maintain the critical thinking skills against stereotypes and general prejudices that they have as young people; to fight against statements lacking a strong argument; to teach their students how to think, not tell them what to think; and to teach students how to engage in debate and not demean or look down on those who think differently from them. He concluded his address by reminding the graduates that human identity is dynamic and a teacher’s role is essentially to understand this individual evolution in order to accompany and teach that identity. Finally, he encouraged them to set aside time each day for reflection and to view their work as teachers as a contribution to society.

The ceremony included the presentation of diplomas and the traditional singing of Gaudeamus Igitur.