Count down with us to 50 years of UM
Exactly 50 years ago, an academic adventure began in Maastricht that has grown into the Maastricht University you know today. On 9 January 1976, in the presence of Queen Juliana, the founding charter of the then Rijksuniversiteit Limburg was signed. The Netherlands gained a new university, and Maastricht a new role as an academic city. From the very beginning, this was a university that stood for innovation and charting its own course. With small-scale, problem-based learning and a strong commitment to society – in the region and far beyond – a conscious choice was made to do things differently. A mindset that is still clearly reflected in who UM is today and in the way education and research are shaped.
In the coming weeks, we will count down together to 23 January: the moment when we officially kick off our anniversary year during the Dies Natalis. Together with students, staff, alumni and everyone who feels connected to UM – including you. The countdown has started on the UM50 website. From 23 January onwards, you will find activities, stories and initiatives there that show how 50 years of UM are being celebrated together, with students, staff, alumni and the region.
Also read
-
17 January 2026: Book Presentation - Maastricht Letterheads
We are pleased to invite you to the book presentation 'Maastricht Letterhead', presented by MACCH affiliated researchers Bart Zwegers and Joris Roosen.
-
From Venezuela to Greenland: How Trump’s actions are shaking European security
Studio Europa Maastricht spoke with Roberta Haar, Professor of Foreign Policy Analysis and Transatlantic Relations at Maastricht University, about the EU’s reaction to Trump’s actions and their potential consequences for European security.
-
Exposure to natural daylight improves metabolic health
Natural daylight has a positive effect on blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, according to an international study led by Maastricht University. This is the first study to show that natural daylight is better for metabolism than artificial light, the researchers claim.
