
INVENTIVE: Anastasiia developed a method inspired by working with self-driving buses to create safer roads. This work originated from the EduSmart project at Nord University. Photo: Private.
Dressed in a suit at the prestigious Arctic Circle Conference in Reykjavik, Anastasiia Kolesnikova (26) moves confidently between political discussions and networking events.
On the last day of the conference, after listening to NATO Admiral Rob Bauer speak about Arctic security, she even finds herself at a social gathering with several high-ranking representatives.
– I never thought I’d end up here, she smiles.
She got some opportunities during her studies—and seized them.

Got an Idea
It all began with a choice she had to make during her third semester of studying at Nord University's Business School.
Instead of just learning from books, the students worked on real-life projects to improve northern cities.
These opportunities came through EduSmart, an initiative at the High North Center at Nord University that challenged students to think innovatively about technological solutions for northern communities.
For Anastasiia, this meant working on something groundbreaking—the world’s northernmost self-driving buses, in collaboration with Nordland County Municipality.

– It was incredibly exciting to work on a project with such cutting-edge technology, Anastasiia says.
Even Forbes wrote about our work!
– We had two self-driving buses in Bodø, the northernmost route in the world for such vehicles.
Anastasiia was inspired. She observed how the self-driving buses used advanced technology to map and understand their surroundings.
This sparked an idea.
Developed a Method
Using a GoPro camera, she developed a systematic method to map road systems. Her method was inspired by how autonomous vehicles collect and analyze environmental data.
Her approach was as simple as it was effective:
- With a GoPro camera mounted on her bike, she cycled through Bodø’s streets.
- Along the way, she systematically recorded everything from the quality of the road surface to dangerous intersections and sudden changes in bike lane design.
– I used the same logic as the self-driving buses. They continuously gather data to navigate safely. I thought, why not use the same systematic approach to make roads safer for cyclists?

All the information was then entered into a system, creating a digital map that highlighted areas needing improvement and those that worked well.
– It’s about identifying patterns. Where are the critical points? Where do dangerous situations occur? With this method, we get a solid data foundation to make better decisions.
Sparked Interest
The method caught the attention of the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.
Her findings became a part of the foundation for evaluating measures to improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists in Bodø.
– After presenting the findings to the Bodø City Package board, two million NOK was allocated to implement measures.
Anastasiia also sees interest in the method from other parts of the country:
– I am in dialogue with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration and Innlandet County Municipality, which plan to adopt the method and require guidance.

A Valuable Tool
Ole Wiggo Nerva confirms the interest. He works at the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, Bodø City Package.
– The methodology of using filming and images provides a good impression of specific points to assess complexity and opportunities for improvement, he says,
He explains that a working group from Bodø Municipality, Nordland County Municipality, and the Norwegian Public Roads Administration used the data to prioritize measures and assess costs.
– This is a valuable tool that offers an overview of measures that can be implemented. The same methodology can be used in other municipalities aiming to improve school routes, cycling infrastructure, and traffic safety.

Loving Her Job
After completing her master’s degree, Anastasiia worked at the Norwegian Public Roads Administration. Now, she’s back with Nordland County Municipality as a trainee, helping connect Northern Norway to the world.
She has landed what she describes as her dream job.
– All of this is thanks to EduSmart, she says.
– I’ve never had so much fun at work, even with all the traveling. I feel like I have everything in this role. Now I can use all the knowledge I’ve gained.
To other students, she offers a piece of advice:
– Get involved in activities outside of your studies. Participate in projects. Volunteer at conferences. It pays off!

About the EduSmart Project (2021-2024)
- Focus: Education and Knowledge Development for Smart City Governance and Performance Management in the High North
- Budget: 6.2 million NOK
- Funded by: The Research Council of Norway
- Host: High North Center at Nord University