SUHF conference

I (Eva) and Marianne Granfelt are at the SUHF conference ‘Innovative education for an innovation future’. Minister for Education Jan Björklund held the opening address. A few highlights: Jan Björklund spoke about globalisation in China and India, and how Sweden is to hold its own with knowledge, science and creativity. Quality of education came up a number of times in the address, and Mr Björklund said that grades are increasing and knowledge is decreasing in Swedish schools. The next research bill will be in 2012, but we should not expect additional resources like those in 2008. In addition, he wants to evaluate research quality. Some major research facilities, such as MAX IV, ESS, the Science for Life Laboratory and databases/registers are a condition for continued development. Some universities in Sweden are to compete with internationally leading universities. At the end, Jan Björklund brought up the role of the university board and how it is appointed. He wants to find a new process for the appointment of the boards. He emphasised that he didn’t want to promise a lot for the future. He will visit 13 higher education institutions this year and the rest next year. A visit to Lund is planned for 22 November. The day and the conference concluded with a panel discussion on ‘The knowledge triangle – emperor’s new clothes or new energy for higher education?’