Solemn opening of the academic year 2025

A moment of tradition, tribute and international openness

On Thursday 9 October 2025, the Université Catholique de Lille celebrated its traditional Rentrée Solennelle, a highlight of the academic year bringing together all teaching and administrative staff who contribute to the life and pedagogy of our community, including our Faculty of Law.

The ceremony opened with the inauguration of the new Pierre-Henri Simon lecture theatre, attended by members of the family of the writer, academician, literary critic and former lecturer at the University. This was followed by the opening of an exhibition paying tribute to this major intellectual and humanist figure, whose work continues to inspire generations of students and academics.

The second part of the ceremony, attended by Patrick Scauflaire, President and Rector, Pascal Balmand, President of the Higher Council and General Administrator, Archbishop Laurent Le Boulc’h, Archbishop of Lille and Chancellor of the University, Laurent Péridy, President of UDESCA, as well as local representatives including Arnaud Deslandes, Mayor of Lille, was marked by the conferral of the title of Doctor Honoris Causa upon four outstanding international figures:

• Professor Salim Daccache S.J., Saint Joseph University of Beirut (Lebanon), a craftsman of peace and knowledge;
• Ollivier Dyens, McGill University (Canada), building bridges between humanity and technology;
• Marie-Thérèse Mengué, Catholic University of Central Africa (Cameroon), empowering Africa to take its future into its own hands;
• Father Pedro Rubens Ferreira Oliveira, Catholic University of Pernambuco (Brazil), a vision of social and educational justice.

This solemn occasion also featured an academic procession of robed professors and researchers, symbolising the unity and continuity of the academic community.

The day concluded with the opening of the ECOPOSS Festival, highlighted by the evening performance of the musical “150 Years in Light”, a festive and inspiring celebration under the banner of creativity and transition.