Celebration of learning and new knowledge
On September 25 it is time for Stockholm University’s annual inauguration and conferment ceremony in the Stockholm City Hall – the most traditional of our academic ceremonies. The ceremony celebrates new doctoral graduates and newly appointed professors as well as honorary doctors.
President Hans Adolfsson and student marshals at the inauguration and conferment ceremony 2025. Photo: Johanna Säll/Stockholm University
The inauguration of professors and the conferment of doctoral degrees are among the oldest academic traditions at Swedish universities, dating back to the Middle Ages.
“The main purpose of the ceremony is, of course, to recognise those who contribute to Stockholm University through their research, our newly appointed professors, and those who have completed doctoral studies, our new PhD graduates. By celebrating their achievements, we also celebrate science and academic freedom,” says Ingrid Harris, master of ceremonies at Stockholm University.
“Students also play a vital role during the ceremony. Student marshals support guests and help ensure that the event runs smoothly. The students serving as marshals are active in student unions and faculty associations at Stockholm University. The ceremony gives them an opportunity to meet fellow students, take part in one of the university’s most festive occasions, and be inspired in their own academic journeys.”
36 new professors and 150 new doctors
During the ceremony at Stockholm City Hall, those who defended and obtained their doctoral degree during the past academic year will be formally conferred. This year, 150 new doctors will take part in the celebration. In addition, 36 new professors will be formally inaugurated.
Those who received their doctoral degrees at Stockholm University 50 years ago are also invited to the celebrations and will be conferred as jubilee doctors. The University’s gold medal and the Award for Good Teaching will also be awarded.
The inaugural lecture will be given by Jan Pedersen, professor of translation studies at the Department of Swedish language and multilingualism.
Six new honorary doctors
Six honorary doctorates will also be conferred at the ceremony. Honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the University’s research and education activities. An honorary doctorate is an expression of the University’s appreciation of outstanding contributions within one of the University’s fields of activity. Recipients must have a connection to Stockholm University or have contributed to the University’s activities in some way.
This year’s honorary doctors are: Matti Bye, Marie Ekeland, Karen Evans, Stéphane Horel, Ugo Pagallo and Corinne Péneau. Read more about their achievements here.
Live broadcast
The Inauguration and conferment ceremony 2026 takes place on Friday 25 September at 17.00 in the Stockholm City Hall. It is broadcast live.
More information
Last updated: 2026-09-21
Source: Communications Office