Facts:
The doctoral award ceremony is the most important and most traditional of the academic ceremonies. The Swedish word “promovera” originates from the Latin promovere, which means bring forward, to promote. The tradition has its roots in the European Middle Ages and its universities, and it emphasises the transition from one stage of the educational career to the next. The tradition has gone through many changes during time, but the content and the symbolism of the ceremony remain more or less the same as 100 years ago.
During the doctoral award ceremony, certain insignias are handed out, i.e. objects that symbolise the dignity of the doctors.
- Doctoral hat – symbolises freedom and power
- Laurel wreath – a symbol of honour
- Ring – symbolises fidelity to science
- Diploma – the written proof of doctoral dignity
Read more about Swedish academic ceremonies and traditions (pdf)