Participation from all units within the Faculty
The seminar brought together academic and administrative leaders from all centers, departments, the Faculty administration, and the Faculty leadership. Representatives from the Faculty board, labor unions, and students were also invited. The program was well crafted, featuring valuable contributions from experts and key figures in the sector. Their lectures and ensuing discussions provided us with increased insight into the expectations from society to the Faculty as a major contributor in research and education.
Contributions from key stakeholders
Professor Peter Maassen from the Faculty of Educational Sciences gave an introductory lecture on the role of universities in society and how it is changing internationally and in Norway. He was followed by Director-General Dag Thomas Gisholt and Chief of Staff Anne-Line Wold from the Ministry of Education and Research, who provided important insights into the Ministry's expectations for our sector. CEO Mari Sundli Tveit from the Research Council of Norway discussed the changes the Council has undergone and the implications these changes have for the higher education sector and our Faculty.
Furthermore, we were presented with interesting reflections from our Vice-Rector Bj?rn Stensaker, who spoke about how the University of Oslo is facing a new era of significant changes and clear expectations from society. It was also thought provoking to hear Nils-Ola Widme, Director of Business Policy at Abelia, presenting his reflections on the importance of STEM subjects for business and green transition. Finally, Eva S. Dugstad, the Faculty's leader for business cooperation and community engagement, presented our systematically and purposefully work to increase collaboration with the business and society.
We must contribute to the development
The higher education sector is under significant pressure, with reduced core funding, uncertain external financing, demands for educating a large number of graduates, an expectation of substantial knowledge enhancement among the population (providing continuing education and further training), and the translation of research results into new technologies, products, and services (contribution to innovation). We are expected to collaborate with the business world and the society around us and to contribute to the green and digital transition.
The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences contributes to all of this, and with high quality! However, it is important that we take the signals seriously and work purposefully and strategically moving forward. This includes communicating the importance of the University and our contributions to research, education, and innovation for society.
Our current focus is to utilize our field of action effectively, not be driven by trivial matters, but rather contribute to the development.
Solveig Kristensen