Celebrating Kuwaiti National Day 2026 at UM

On Monday 16 February 2026 the Kuwaiti student community at the University of Malta supported by the International Office organised an event at the Quadrangle in honour of the Kuwaiti National Day.

The celebration, commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Kuwaiti National Day, and the 35th anniversary of the country’s Liberation, kicked off with an opening ceremony at 10:00.

In his opening remarks, UM Pro-Rector for International Development & Quality Assurance Prof. Frank Bezzina emphasised that “Despite the challenges of living away from their homes and families, they have built a close-knit community, which we are delighted to celebrate today. For several years, these students have embraced Malta as their home, becoming part of local life and engaging fully in both campus and community activities.”.

The event attracted a strong turn-out from students and staff of the University. Visitors were able to get a taste of the Kuwaiti culture through the vibrant displays and the student’s enthusiasm to explain and engage. Music, food, Henna drawings, face painting, Arabic calligraphy, history, sports and language.

The Kuwaiti students also donned traditional Kuwaiti clothing and various costumes were also available for guests to don and take photo booth pictures.

UM Rector Prof. Alfred J. Vella, UM Pro-Rector for Student & Staff Affairs and Outreach, Prof. Carmen Sammut, the Rector’s Delegate for International Medical Students Mentoring Dr Christian Zammit, and several other guests visited the stands. The Embassy of Kuwait in Malta was represented by Mr Faraj Alhajeri, Deputy Head of Mission.

Kuwaiti National Day marks the day when Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah ascended to the throne in 1950. He was key to acquiring independence of the nation from Britain, and formally establishing the Constitution and the Parliament of Kuwait. Nationwide festivities include impressive fireworks display, and public gatherings with food, drink and entertainment.

The UM presently hosts a total of 157 Kuwaiti students across different levels of study. A total of 151 Kuwaiti students sponsored by the Ministry of Higher Education of the State of Kuwait have graduated from the UM so far.