International Higher Education Day - June 19

International Higher Education Day, celebrated each year on June 19, is a global initiative launched by the European Association for Higher Education Advancement (EAHEA) to recognize and promote the vital role of higher education in building inclusive, innovative, and sustainable societies.

On this day, universities, research institutions, student unions, and education stakeholders around the world are encouraged to:

Reflect on the transformative power of higher education,
Host public discussions, conferences, or open days,
Highlight access, equity, and innovation in higher learning,
Celebrate educators, students, and knowledge-sharing communities.

IHED stands as a platform to inspire collaboration, policy dialogue, and social engagement—ensuring that higher education continues to be a driver of global progress.

Official Declaration

This is an official proclamation about International Higher Education Day issued by the European Association for Higher Education Advancement (EAHEA) and signed by the EAHEA Board of Directors on January 6, 2020:

We, the European Association for Higher Education Advancement (EAHEA), hereby proclaim June 19th as the International Higher Education Day, to be observed annually around the world.

On this day, we recognize the critical role of higher education in advancing human potential, promoting peace and sustainability, and fostering scientific, social, and economic development. Higher education is not a privilege, but a right that must be protected, strengthened, and made accessible to all.

Higher education institutions serve as pillars of democratic societies and incubators for innovation, civic responsibility, and intercultural dialogue. On this occasion, we celebrate universities, educators, researchers, and students who shape the future with their knowledge and dedication.

June 19 has been selected in recognition of the historic signing of the Bologna Declaration in 1999, a milestone in building a unified and inclusive European Higher Education Area — and now, a symbol of global academic cooperation.

We invite universities, governments, academic bodies, students, and civil society around the world to join us in commemorating this day through dialogue, collaboration, and concrete actions that promote excellence, equity, and inclusion in higher education.

Let this day be a catalyst for a future where higher education transcends borders, empowers individuals, and transforms societies.