November 17 — International Students' Day: history, traditions, congratulations

International Student's Day is celebrated annually on November 17. It is a celebration of solidarity between university students from different parts of the world. In 2025, it falls on a Monday. Izvestia tells about the history and traditions of the celebration, as well as shares warm congratulations for the students.

International Students' Day in 2025 — the history of the holiday

The international holiday is based on the tragic events of the Second World War. On October 28, 1939, student demonstrations took place in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia. The protesters took to the streets to mark the anniversary of the formation of the Czechoslovak state.

Students and teachers of Charles University, who were holding a rally on the square in front of the educational institution, clashed with German troops. The units opened fire on the protesters, wounding Jan Opletal, a medical student, and Vaclav Sedlacek, a baker's assistant.

The wounded were urgently sent to the university hospital, but Sedlacek died on the way, and Opletal, despite emergency surgery, died on November 11 from purulent peritonitis. The student's funeral, which took place on November 15, escalated into mass riots, which were brutally suppressed by the Nazis.

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On the night of November 17, searches took place at Charles University, and early in the morning the Nazis surrounded the student dormitories. About 1.2 thousand students were sent to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, and nine of the "instigators of the riots" were executed on the spot.

In 1941, an international meeting of students from countries that fought against fascism was held in London. During the discussions, the participants suggested setting a memorable date in honor of the courage of Czech students. Since 1946, after the decision of the World Congress of Students, November 17 has been celebrated annually as International Students' Day.

Traditions of the International Students' Day

In the modern world, International Students' Day is a celebration of cooperation between students of higher education institutions. Various meetings and student forums are timed to coincide with this date. On November 17, universities will talk about their international programs and achievements in attracting foreign students. Special attention is paid to the support of foreign students who face difficulties in the learning process.

Despite its scale, International Students' Day has no official status in many countries, including Russia. Tatiana's Day is more popular in our country, which is traditionally celebrated on January 25 as a student holiday.

Nevertheless, many higher education institutions organize various events on this day.:

• festivals and concerts with the participation of creative teams;
• themed parties and flash mobs;
• charity events and fundraising;
• sports competitions and tournaments.

As part of the celebration, forums, scientific conferences and round tables are held, where topical issues and prospects for the development of student life and the higher education system are discussed.

Congratulations on the International Students' Day

All university students take part in the International Student's Day. Most often, they wish them easy studies, a successful career, fulfillment of desires and achievement of goals. Here are some examples of wishes:

"Dear students! On this international holiday, we wish that the years of study become a time of bright discoveries and true inspiration. Let the lectures be interesting, the sessions successful, and the student friendship will warm our hearts for many years to come. Appreciate every moment of this unforgettable time, fill it with knowledge, dreams and joyful events!"

"Happy International Students' Day! May student life be full and varied: interesting studies, loyal friends, fun parties and, of course, successful passing of all exams. I wish you not just to get an education, but to find your vocation. May your energy and enthusiasm help you conquer any heights!"

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"Congratulations on the International Students' Day! This is a unique time when the foundation of the whole future life is being laid. Let every day bring new knowledge and useful experience, and difficulties only build character. I wish that the student period will be remembered not only for sleepless nights before the session, but also for unforgettable moments of happiness and friendship!"

"Dear students, happy holidays! May these years be filled not only with textbooks and notes, but also with real discoveries — in science, in oneself, and in the world around us. We wish you wise mentors, understanding teachers and loyal friends nearby. May your energy and talents be put to good use, and your diploma will be a passport to a successful future!"

"Happy International Students' Day! Your life now is like an exciting quest, where every day is a new adventure. May the love of knowledge never fade, and the pursuit of a dream help overcome all obstacles. We wish lectures to inspire, practice to captivate, and student years to become the brightest chapter in the book of your life!"

Earlier, Izvestia reported on the history and traditions of the Sociologist's Day.