International Academic Freedom Day
A higher education celebration of World Teachers' Day
Scholars at Risk celebrates International Academic Freedom Day in solidarity with, and on the occasion of, World Teachers’ Day, 5 October. Since 1994 when it was created by UNESCO, World Teachers’ Day celebrates and aims to mobilize support for educators at all levels and to ensure quality education for future generations. At the higher education level, Scholars at Risk and partners worldwide use this day to call increased attention to the importance of core university values—including academic freedom, institutional autonomy, access, accountability, social responsibility and respect for human rights—not only for the education sector, but for all members of society. A day celebrating these values encourages greater public understanding and public responsibility for defending the educational space at all levels.
Celebrate International Academic Freedom Day by hosting your own "Courage to Think" dialogue or other event on your campus. A one-on-one dialogue with a local leader or faculty member, or a visiting SAR scholar or other guest, is an easy, effective way to open a discussion about the importance of defending the space for thinking, creativity and expression in society.
For guidance on organizing a dialogue -- including identifying a speaker and audience -- click here.
Remember to let Scholars at Risk know you are planning an event. Record it on video and send it to us. We will put it on our website along with other “Courage to Think” dialogues from across the network.
Questions? SAR welcomes inquiries from campuses interested in hosting a “Courage to Think” dialogue or other International Academic Freedom Day event, and can provide advice on the planning process including a copy of the SAR Speaker Series Handbook. Contact SAR at +1 212-998-2179 or scholarsatrisk@nyu.edu.