International Student's Day

November 17, Sunday

International Students' Day is celebrated annually on November 17. This day symbolizes the solidarity of students from all over the world in the fight for their rights, freedom and access to education. The history of the holiday is rooted in the tragic events that took place in Czechoslovakia during World War II.

History of the holiday
The origins of International Students' Day are connected with the events of 1939 in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). In October 1939, students and teachers of the University of Prague organized a peaceful demonstration to mark the anniversary of the creation of Czechoslovakia and to protest against the Nazi occupation. However, this demonstration was brutally suppressed by Nazi troops, which resulted in the death of student Jan Opletal, as well as numerous arrests and repressions among students.

After the death of Jan Opletal, students again took to the streets to protest. In response, on November 17, 1939, Nazi forces arrested thousands of students, closed all universities in Czechoslovakia, and executed nine student leaders without trial. Thousands of students were sent to concentration camps.

In memory of these tragic events, the International Union of Students in 1941 proclaimed November 17 as International Students' Day at a meeting in London.

Celebration Traditions
International Students' Day is celebrated in different ways in different countries, but the underlying theme is always the protection of students' rights and their contribution to society. Celebrations may include:

Discussions and forums. Universities hold conferences, round tables, and lectures devoted to students' rights, problems in higher education, and ways to solve them.
Demonstrations and rallies. In some countries, students organize protests and marches to express their demands and protect their rights.
Cultural and sports events. Universities host festivals, concerts, theatre productions and sports competitions that help bring students together.
Commemorative events. In some countries, especially in the Czech Republic, commemorative events, flower-laying ceremonies and ceremonies are held to honour the victims of the Nazi repressions of 1939.

International Students' Day is not only a historical date, but also a symbol of student solidarity around the world. It reminds us of the importance of student movements, freedom of speech and the right to education. On this day, students can raise their voices, discuss important issues and unite to create a better future for everyone.

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International Student's Day in other years

2021 November 17, Wednesday
2022 November 17, Thursday
2023 November 17, Friday
2025 November 17, Monday

International Student's Day in other countries