Knowledge and curiosity in focus as the master’s conferment ceremony filled Aula Magna

A beautifully decorated Aula Magna was filled to the very last seat with excited students and their families. The conferment ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages that formally marks the completion of an advanced-level degree.

“For all of you who are graduating today, it is an important milestone, a day to celebrate and remember.”

With these words, Vice President Jane Reichel opened the ceremony. She also highlighted that the graduates carry with them the university’s most valuable asset, knowledge.

“You who hold a degree from Stockholm University, our alumni, are the most important bearers of the university’s knowledge. May your knowledge and skills be shared and spread widely, all over the world.”

A chance to celebrate together

Anna Byström and Linda Josefsson Djupa are looking forward to seeing their course mates again. Photo: Sofie Trosell/Stockholm University

Anna Byström and Linda Josefsson Djupa have both studied to become special needs teachers. They are looking forward to seeing their course mates again and celebrating their achievements together.

“It feels exciting and fun to be here,” says Anna. “It’s a wonderful way to round off our time as students,” Linda adds.

Stay curious

Victor Nygren, President of the Stockholm University Student Union, reminded the graduates that completing a degree does not mean leaving learning behind. In many ways, he said, this is where everything begins.

“We need to keep exercising critique, keep supporting our arguments with facts, and above all, remain curious.”

He also took the opportunity to thank the students for their dedication and the contributions they have made to the university’s academic community and student life.

“Thank you for filling this university with life.”

Grateful, proud, and sentimental

Taimoor Raza Sultan has completed a Master of Laws in International Commercial Arbitration. Photo: Sofie Trosell/Stockholm University

“This ceremony feels like the end of one chapter and the beginning of another,” says Taimoor Raza Sultan, who has completed a Master of Laws in International Commercial Arbitration. “I’m grateful, proud, and a little sentimental. Standing here, I can’t help thinking of my late father, who taught me my first words of law. He was a judge in our home country.”

Taimoor’s family could not attend the ceremony in person, but they are watching via livestream.

“Knowing that they are here with me, not physically, but in spirit, gives this evening a special meaning.”

A thank you for putting in the effort

Esther Cole has completed a master’s degree in marketing and has recently secured her dream job. Photo: Sofie Trosell/Stockholm University

Esther Cole has completed a master’s degree in marketing and has recently secured her dream job as a junior brand manager at a major company. This evening, she is attending the ceremony to receive her diploma.

“I am so excited to be here! It feels like a wonderful way to acknowledge all the hard work.”

One of her fondest memories from her time at Stockholm University is winning the Impact Cup, a start-up competition for early-stage business ideas.

“But another great memory is spending Sundays at the Albano campus, working on my thesis together with friends.”

Education is a ticket to endless possibilities

Karin Bohlin Folcker, Alumni coordinator, gave the closing speech and reminded the newly graduated students that education is a lifelong journey.

“During your studies, the road ahead was often clear. From now on, the path may feel less predictable. But you are ready. You’ve read the travel guides, learned to use a compass, and mastered the map. Your degree is more than a destination—it is a ticket to endless possibilities.”

The ceremony was led by the Conferment marshal Maja Balkandjiev and included musical performances by the Stockholm University Choir and the Austre Brass Quintet.