The University of Aberdeen was one of around 60 universities represented at the signing of a document underpinning the principles of academic freedom and institutional autonomy.
The Magna Charta Universitatum (MCU), a declaration and affirmation of the fundamental principles upon which the mission of Universities should be based, was signed in 1998 on the occasion of the 900th anniversary of the University of Bologna. The document contained the fundamental principles of academic freedom and institutional autonomy.
By signing the Magna Charta Universitatum 2020 Universities declare their commitment to the original declaration and to upholding and advancing the Principles, Values and Responsibilities, to strengthen the role of universities in promoting health, prosperity and enlightenment around the world.
The University of Aberdeen proudly signed the Magna Charta Universitatum MCU in 2020 remotely (due to Covid restrictions) affirming its commitment to the fundamental principles of Academic Freedom, Institutional Autonomy, Research, Internationalisation, Equality, and other core values essential to higher education.
On the 13 November 2025, Mark White, the University CFO, signed in person at the Magna Charta Anniversary event in the magnificent Kings College, London.