The ceremony took place in the auditorium of the Department of Medical Sciences at the University of Aveiro and was attended by students' families, who filled the room with pride and anticipation for the next generation of physicians.

Professor Francisco Amado, Director of the Department of Medical Sciences, described the event as "a simple ceremony that represents a very special moment from both an ethical and social perspective." He emphasised that the white coat symbolises essential values such as altruism, humility, and humanism, which should accompany students throughout their clinical training. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a smile as a fundamental element of compassionate, patient-centred care.

Professor Firmino Machado, Director of the Integrated Master's Degree in Medicine, reinforced the symbolic significance of the white coat as a representation of respect and trust. Addressing the students, he shared four key messages:

• Humility to learn from both tutors and patients;
• Curiosity to question, explore, and seek continuous learning;
• Non-maleficence, always placing patients first while recognising that professional autonomy is developed progressively;
• Respect for mentors and colleagues, acknowledging teamwork as the foundation of medical practice.

Dr José Pedro Antunes, Coordinator of Clinical Placements in General and Family Medicine, also addressed the students, sharing his emotion on this important occasion and reminding them that "more than training doctors, we are shaping people."

The ceremony continued with the individual presentation of white coats by faculty members in small groups, followed by a collective oath, a group photograph, and an informal gathering celebrating this important milestone.

EMHA wishes all students every success as they begin their clinical training and encourages them to learn with dedication, treat every patient with respect, and honour the values represented by the white coat throughout their professional journey.

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