New research platforms pave the way for green growth
The platforms for Nordic co-operation on research built up by the Council of Ministers' Top-level Research initiative are already creating the conditions for green growth, according to the interim report at the half-way point of the initiative.
- Photographer
- Magnus Fröderberg/norden.org
Speaking at the Top-Level Research Initiative Annual Conference in Holmenkollen, 28-29 November, the Norwegian Minister for Research and Higher Education, Tora Aasland, pointed out that the prime ministers have put green growth high on the agenda for official co-operation and that the vision is to make the Nordic countries a model region for green business and sustainable development.
"The Top-level Research Initiative fits like a glove with the new objectives and priorities that have emerged at national, Nordic, European and global level. Nordic collaboration on research turns ideas and ideals into partnerships that generate tangible results, and will, we hope, also lead to tangible social change," the minister said.
Benefiting the next generation
The networks built up during the Top-level Research Initiative (TRI) are of particular benefit to the next generation of researchers. An example of this is the TRI centre of excellence NORD-STAR (Nordic Strategic Adaptation Research), which develops analytical and strategic tools for adapting to climate change. The universities and institutions involved in the project have set up a student training programme staffed by lecturers with proven track records of top-class teaching in order to encourage more and better dialogue and enhance competences across national borders.
"The courses last a week and are open to students from all of the Nordic countries. It helps the researchers of the future to have a Nordic network right from the start," explains Sirkku Juhola, PhD researcher at Aalto University in Helsinki and a member of the NORD-STAR Steering Group.
Action plans for innovation important
The conference confirmed that green growth requires long-term action plans and strategies, both at universities and elsewhere. During a panel discussion, the Pro-Rector of Oslo University, Inga Bostad, stressed the particular importance of keeping channels open between the natural sciences, technology and the social sciences.
"The important thing is to create opportunities to make visible the connections between basic research and what is happening in society as a whole. Providing education and training that will change society is perhaps our most important mission," she said.
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