King Willem-Alexander to attend Maastricht University’s 50th anniversary
Maastricht University (UM) will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026. On Friday 23 January, the jubilee year will begin with the Dies Natalis, the official anniversary celebration. His Majesty the King will be in attendance.
King Willem-Alexander will visit the university at the location where Queen Juliana signed the founding charter in 1976 of what was then known as the Rijksuniversiteit Limburg. What began as a small medical faculty on the edge of the Netherlands, but at the heart of Europe, has since grown into an international centre of learning with a global reputation. This anniversary marks both a moment for reflection and an opportunity to look ahead.
During the celebration, Pamela Habibović, Rector Magnificus of Maastricht University, will deliver the anniversary address. In addition, contributions will be made by the three recipients of the honorary doctorates: Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross; Roger Cox, lawyer and renowned for his pioneering work in climate litigation; and Peter Stenvinkel, Professor of Nephrology at the Karolinska Institutet and a trailblazing researcher at the intersection of health, climate and ageing.
The programme will also include the presentation of the Wynand Wijnen Education Prize, the Dissertation Prize and the Master’s Student Prizes. Musical performances will complete the jubilee edition of the Dies Natalis.
Following the plenary programme, King Willem-Alexander will engage in a small-group discussion with students and staff of Maastricht University, as well as representatives of the municipality, focusing on international education, research and scientific impact, and the societal impact on the city and the region.
The Dies Natalis will take place from 15.30 to approximately 17.15 at the St. Servaasbasiliek in Maastricht. There are no more seats available, but the celebration can be followed live on 23 January via a livestream on our website.
Photography: ©RVD - Valerie Kuypers
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