The Academy, which is at the origin of the University of Geneva, was founded in 1559. It was in 1870 that the University first introduced a formal award ceremony. However, it was not until 1904 that the University celebrated its first Dies academicus.
As the official day of the Alma Mater, this ceremony was traditionally held around 5 June, the date on which the Academy was founded. In line with the new university calendar, since 2010 it has been celebrated in mid-October. The ceremony features political and academic authorities. Merits are awarded, such as the degree of Doctor honoris causa, the University Medal, the Innovation Medal, the Nessim Habif World Prize and the Latsis Prize.
Find out more about the awards presented at the Dies academicus ceremony.
Classes at all faculties are traditionally suspended on the morning of the Dies academicus.