Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Official website of the State –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Do you know what all students around the world—from Prague to Tokyo, from Moscow to Rio de Janeiro—have in common? A stubborn desire for freedom and an incredible ability to make friends across borders and language barriers. This is the spirit that permeates International Students' Day, celebrated on November 17.
The Birth of Student Solidarity Day
The history of this day began with a genuine student uprising. In the fall of 1939, in Nazi-occupied Prague, students and faculty from Charles University took to the streets to celebrate the birthday of their country, Czechoslovakia. The authorities responded brutally: medical student Jan Opletal was riddled with bullets. His funeral turned into a massive protest, after which the Nazis closed all Czech universities, executed nine students on the spot, and sent more than 1,200 others to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp.
It was these tragic events that led to the creation of International Students' Day. In 1941, representatives of the university community from around the world gathered in London to honor the memory of the fallen Czech students and establish November 17 as a symbol of youth solidarity worldwide. Thus, the day of mourning became a day of unity and hope. Since 1946, following a decision by the World Students' Congress, this day has been celebrated in over 100 countries, hosting a wide range of events—from ceremonies to festivals, from academic debates to charity events. Students prove that youth and friendship transcend any borders!
Russia: 4 million talents
Today, Russia boasts a vast student community—over four million! The government supports them through scholarships, grants, internship programs, and academic exchanges. Our students don't just study—they create startups, win international competitions, and contribute to science and the volunteer movement.
This day is special for the State University of Management. SUM students continue the best traditions of our university community, which has existed—just think about it—since the late 19th century: they help each other in their studies, create joint projects, and organize events. And they prove that student years are a time of true friendship and bold achievements.
We are proud that our walls are nurturing future leaders capable of changing the world for the better. International Students' Day is a celebration for those who believe in combining study and friendship, serious research projects and joyful student traditions. It is students, with their vibrant energy, bright minds, and incredible ability to unite for the sake of peace, who are creating a future with greater justice, knowledge, and mutual understanding.
Happy holiday to all students—former, present, and future! Happy holiday, my dear alma mater! And, as they said and sang in the days of the first medieval universities, gaudeamus igitur, juvenes dum sumus—let's have fun while we're young!
Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: November 17, 2025.
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