Haydar Koçak becomes pharmacist at age 65 after 48-year hiatus

Haydar Koçak, a 65-year-old resident of Izmir, has fulfilled a 48-year dream by graduating as a pharmacist. His academic journey was interrupted in 1977 when he entered Hacettepe University's Faculty of Pharmacy, only to be expelled and imprisoned following the September 12, 1980, military coup.

After decades working in various sectors, including computer management, journalism, and trade, Koçak utilized a 2011 student amnesty to return to university. He has since opened 'Dünyam Eczanesi' in Konak, Izmir, naming the pharmacy after his granddaughter, Dünya.

Koçak noted that his passion for pharmacy was inspired by his mother, who served as a voluntary health worker in rural areas. He celebrated his graduation ceremony alongside his granddaughter.