CALL FOR ACTION: International Day of Students 2013
The International Students’ Day has a long history of student protests, and uprisings for a better education, equal rights and democracy. This year we also want to stand up on this day and not only remember the history of this day but also claim our voices and raise awareness for issues facing students today, not only in Europe but all around the world!
The Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions (OBESSU) and the European Students’ Union (ESU) are working on promoting students rights all over Europe, every day.
The educational systems, the way young people are listened to and the things that are fought for may vary around different parts of Europe. Still, many of the concerns and struggles are similar. Yet in 2013, students are experiencing deep differences when it comes to access and provision of education within the countries of Europe. The services provided by educational institutions, the cost of education and the forms of support guaranteed to students are far from being homogenous in Europe. Although the needs are different, the idea of free, democratic, equal, inclusive education- that OBESSU and ESU and their member organisations are fighting for- still remains the same.
Student and school students rights as well as the access to education should never be taken for granted, nor when they are assured for the moment. We cannot forget the student activists that fought for education in the past; neither can we forget about all the young people who work today for the same objectives. Students’ rights and their effective implementation must become the basis to reconsider education in Europe. We cannot forget the struggles and the improvements the students achieved in the past, we want however, that 17th November is not only seen as a day of commemoration, but as a day of action.
Especially in times of austerity we must not tire of reminding decision makers and society of the value education that holds for all of us! Education is the key to change and equality so free access to quality education must be ensured for all.
Therefore, OBESSU and ESU invites YOU to take an action on the 17th of November 2013 to raise awareness about the harsh history of student and school student activism, to make our voice heard on current issues and to show how students still fight for their rights. Imagine a day, when students and school students all over Europe come together in common action to fight for a brighter future.
Stand up and make sure your voice is heard!
