Vice-Chancellor’s blog: Have a relaxing summer break!
Photo: Istock
We’ve all been able to rejoice over lifted pandemic restrictions and the opportunity to meet up in real life. I’m especially pleased that our new graduates have been able to celebrate their graduation properly, creating beautiful memories as they embark on their new careers. Looking ahead, we intend to work purposefully to create stronger bonds between our alumni and the university.
For most of us, the lifted restrictions have also meant that our calendars have filled with various activities. Preferably, everything needs doing before the summer. For instance, the university has been able to host the first visit from the assessment panel from the Swedish Higher Education Authority (UKÄ) set to review our quality systems. We have also completed the new vision and strategy process, resulting in three development areas and six strategic goals. The vision will be discussed in more detail during one of the first general information meetings in the assembly hall this autumn.
As I’m writing this, a workshop is underway with PSF@ORU.SE, our multidisciplinary platform for a sustainable future. Some 50 researchers representing all schools at the university are engaging in lively discussions about the platform’s future activities within three major thematic areas. The outcome will be of great significance both for the university’s future development and for society at large.
Meanwhile, we’re hosting a visit by representatives of the eight other European higher education institutions within the NEOLAiA alliance. We have received words of praise for a nice and well-coordinated event, which indeed has become a hallmark for ORU!
My view is that this active collaboration with other young broad universities, seven of which have a medical faculty, will be incredibly important for our internationalisation. It will also be an active contribution to the strengthening of democracy and unity in our Europe.
And now, I’d like to wish you all a Happy Midsummer and after that a very well-deserved and relaxing summer holiday!
Johan
Johan Schnürer
Vice-Chancellor