17th November

The 17 of November is seen worldwide as International Students Day. On this day in 1939 the Czechoslovakian students fell fell victim to the Nazis when they stormed the dormitories of the University in Prague. Following this event the International Students Council declared 17 November as the 'International Students Day'.

Since then the 17 November has marked important student events all over the world.

On 17th November 1973, the Greek junta attacked the Greek students who had barricaded themselves in the University of Athens. Many students died as a result. Because of this, in Greece, 17 November has officially been declared as the Day of the Greek Students.

On 17th of November 1989, fifty years after rebellious Czechoslovakian students were killed by the Nazis; students there rose up against another undemocratic government. In both the Czech Republic and in Slovakia the day is celebrated as the Struggle for Liberty and Democracy Day.

All these events are still inspiring students all over the world in their quest for truly democratic education and a democratic society. The International Students Day has become a symbol for the struggle of students all over the world.

You are encouraged to mark this day in your students unions, clubs and societies.

17th of November is commemorated across the world to remember students who fought for their freedom. We strongly encourage you to mark the day in your students' union.

If you require guidelines in organizing an event to mark the day, please email me: issahaku.kotomah@nus.org.uk

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