NYTT MEDLEM: Utvidelsen av alliansen markerer en milepæl i nordisk samarbeid og lover godt for fremtiden til arktisk forskning og utdanning. Foto: Markus Johnsen Thonhaugen.
A new era for Arctic research and education has begun.
Nord University steps into the exclusive company of Arctic Five, which is now becoming Arctic Six. The announcement took place during a ceremony in Reykjavik in October, coinciding with the Arctic Circle conference.
"This is just the beginning," says Hanne Solheim Hansen, rector at Nord University.
She sees great opportunities in the expanded collaboration among the leading Arctic universities in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
"By joining forces, we can conduct more and better research and education to benefit the communities in the Arctic region," Hansen emphasizes.
Strengthened Arctic Competence
Arctic Six now represents an impressive knowledge base with over 10,000 researchers and around 90,000 students. This makes the alliance the most comprehensive research and education group in the European Arctic. Nord University brings new expertise to the table, particularly in aquaculture and marine research, business development, safety and emergency preparedness, as well as Sami language and culture.
“We gain a stronger voice internationally,” explains Hansen. “I believe the decision the universities made is a very good response to the geopolitical situation we are in now,” she adds.
Focus on Future Challenges
Climate change, sustainable development, and geopolitical tensions are high on the agenda for Arctic Six. Through close collaboration on research and education, the alliance aims to create knowledge that benefits the entire Arctic region.
“Together we are better equipped to meet the complex challenges in the Arctic,” concludes Hansen.
UiT takes over the leadership of Arctic Six in March 2025. Rector Dag Rune Olsen looks forward to good cooperation. “Together we are a stronger universal voice in our own countries, in the region, but also on the European stage and internationally. I warmly welcome Nord University,” says Olsen.
Nord University becomes a member - hear the views of rector Hanne Solheim Hansen:
Facts about Arctic Six (A6)
- Arctic Six is an alliance between six Arctic universities in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
- Together, the universities have 10,000 researchers and 90,000 students.
- They collaborate on education, research, and innovation to contribute to the development of the Arctic as a sustainable region.
- Stakeholders from business and industry in the three countries also work closely with the A6 universities.
- A6 also serves as a regional centre for the international UArctic network.
- Members: Luleå University of Technology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Umeå University, University of Lapland, University of Oulu, and Nord University.
Facts about Arctic Six (A6)
- Arctic Six is an alliance between six Arctic universities in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
- Together, the universities have 10,000 researchers and 90,000 students.
- They collaborate on education, research, and innovation to contribute to the development of the Arctic as a sustainable region.
- Stakeholders from business and industry in the three countries also work closely with the A6 universities.
- A6 also serves as a regional centre for the international UArctic network.
- Members: Luleå University of Technology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Umeå University, University of Lapland, University of Oulu, and Nord University.
