International Students Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Students Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Students Day is celebrated on November 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Students Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you might want to know about International Students Day.

📅 What day is International Students Day 2024?

In 2024, International Students Day is on Friday, November 17th. It is the 3rd Friday in November; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all intriguing details and facts about November 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

International Students’ Day, observed on November 17th, commemorates the bravery of Prague students who fought for their country’s pride and access to higher education. During the year 1939, when the Nazis were in power, nine protesters were arrested and killed without a fair trial, while around 1,200 students were imprisoned in death camps, resulting in numerous casualties. This day serves as a tribute to their courageous efforts. Despite the apparent differences between us today, in many nations, the right to education and peaceful dissent is still a contentious issue. On International Students’ Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to safeguard the rights of our young generation and support them by directing them towards helpful resources like Scholaroo, a website that offers information on scholarships and educational materials.

📜 International Students Day History

In 1939, students from Charles University in Prague organized a rally to honor the establishment of an independent Czechoslovak Republic. Unfortunately, the Nazis violently suppressed the event and even caused the death of a student named Jan Opletal. This tragedy led to a funeral march attended by thousands of students, which turned into a protest against the Nazis. In response, the Nazis closed all Czech educational institutions and arrested over 1,200 students who were then sent to detention camps. The situation worsened when, on November 17, the Nazis arrested and executed nine demonstrators without any trial.

Historians believe that the Nazis allowed the funeral procession to take place because they expected it to become violent. This would serve as a pretext for shutting down all universities in the Czech Republic, effectively ending intellectual and student protests.

To honor the bravery of the student activists during this dark period, International Students’ Day is observed on November 17. The first commemoration took place in 1941 at the International Students’ Council in London, where students decided to establish this day of remembrance. Since then, various organizations and foreign student groups have continued to mark the day. In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, it is even recognized as a public holiday known as “Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day.”

✅ International Students Day Facts

🔖 Iranian women in science outnumber other countries
Iran has the highest number of women enrolled in universities compared to any other nation. Over 70% of these women are pursuing degrees in pure sciences and engineering.

🔖 The first university mascot
Yale University holds the distinction of having the first-ever mascot among American universities, known as “Handsome Dan.”

🔖 Where no university flag has gone before
Princeton alum Charles “Pete” Conrad, who graduated in 1968, achieved the remarkable feat of being the third individual to set foot on the moon. During his mission, he proudly placed a flag representing Princeton University on the lunar surface.

👍 Why Is International Students Day Important

Today, we are reminded of the necessity of disagreement and the privilege of education. It motivates us to keep asking big questions, regardless of the repercussions.
Students are the leaders, intellectuals, innovators, and moral centers of the future. Higher education enables everyone to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. International Students’ Day honors students and their right to an education.
It’s a day to honor student activism. Student-led action has historically challenged the authority of Nazis and despots. Student-led protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, Prague’s Velvet Revolution, and India’s Jawaharlal Nehru University will inspire future generations.

🙂 How To Observe International Students Day

⚡ Chat with someone new
Reach out to an exchange student or a newcomer in your class and introduce yourself. You could even invite them to join you for a meal. Building a personal connection is the best way to break down any preconceived notions or assumptions.

⚡ Organise events at your university
International Students’ Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the power of youth and the importance of diversity. It’s a reminder to encourage universities to organize events that promote multiculturalism. These activities can bring together students from different backgrounds to engage in conversations, enjoy films, music, and art from various countries.

⚡ Talk about it
Inform others by utilizing your personal connections and online platforms. Utilize social media to distribute useful resources and information. The more people you can reach out to, the more effective it will be.

📅 When is International Students Day?

See all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about International Students Day. So be sure to check back soon.