Students gather in Umeå for UArctic Rectors' Forum
The Students' Forum portion of the UArctic Rectors' Forum begins today in Sweden at Umeå University. Student representation in the Rectors' Forum has become a regular feature, and gives a direct student voice into the main issues of higher education and science being addressed.
In addition to attending some of the Rectors' Forum sessions, the students will have their own program that includes workshops on indigenous peoples, health, and gender perspectives on Arctic research. Eleven students are participating this year from Sweden, Norway, Russia, Finland, the UK, and Japan.
This year's theme is 'The Challenges of Arctic Research' and sees university leaders from across the circumpolar world convene to discuss issues including national Arctic research strategies, and how northern universities can positively contribute to better science that is more responsive to the needs of northern communities.
The students will at the end of the Rectors' Forum present their recommendation on Arctic research to the assembled rectors.
The UArctic Rectors' Forum is generally held annually, and is an opportunity for senior university leaders from across the circumpolar North to openly discuss common issues and challenges.