Together, we make a difference

The month of January marks both endings and beginnings. New students, new encounters and a new chapter – for them, and for me as Vice-Chancellor. In this column, I share a few simple but essential personal reflections on responsibility, community building and how, together, we make a difference at the University of Gävle and beyond.

January is always a special month at a higher education institution. Courses are completed, examinations are taken, and graduation ceremonies are held for different programmes. At the same time, new students enter our University with anticipation, nervousness and energy. For me personally, this year’s welcome ceremony for our students also meant something more. It became a clear departure point in my role as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gävle.

Standing in Valhall, our main lecture hall – which I now also manage to find my way to independently – and meeting our new students, I was struck by how much is contained in that very moment. A new chapter begins. New contexts and new roles. New relationships that may last a lifetime. But also a shared responsibility for something greater than the individual trajectory. That is where I want to place the core of this column.

Take care of yourself.
Take care of and look out for your friends and colleagues.
And take care of our University and the society we are part of and contribute to.

To those of us who live in Gävle

Those of us who already know the city of Gävle have a special responsibility – and a wonderful opportunity – to introduce new fellow students and new colleagues to our university and our city. Invite them in. Show them around. Point out your favourite café, the walking paths along the Gavle River, Boulognerskogen, swimming spots, cultural venues and restaurants. The best pizza. The cheapest coffee. It is often in these small encounters that a new city also becomes a new home. For many students, Gävle is new. With your help, this new place can quickly feel safe, vibrant and welcoming.

To business partners and the wider society

Here, in the heart of Gävle, new knowledge and experience are created every day, along with competence and confidence in the future. Our students are not only students in education – they are our future employees, innovators and contributors to society. Make the most of this. Collaborate, open doors, offer internships, projects and dialogues. When higher education and society move forward together, the impact becomes stronger, more relevant and more sustainable.

To you, our students

You have made a brave and wise choice in pursuing higher education. Studying involves responsibilities, hard work and sometimes real struggle. But higher education is also about taking part in and contribute to a community, the development of critical thinking, and both professional and personal growth. My perhaps most important piece of advice is therefore simple: make sure you also enjoy your time as a student. Get involved. Dare to try. Dare to fail. Celebrate your successes – big and small. An exam passed. A group project that works. A friendship that begins.

To you, our staff

The spring semester is intensive and begins immediately after the autumn term, without a longer break in between. We all know that this can make it challenging to recharge our batteries. We always place great focus on our students and doctoral candidates. But do not forget each other – within the teaching team, the research group or the department. See the person sitting next to you. Support each other. And speak up if something does not feel right. Higher education is founded on free thought and the interaction between different perspectives, on the courage both to critically question and to listen. We do not have to agree on everything, but we must always meet each other with respect.

The University of Gävle aims to be the first choice for everyone who wants to make a difference. That journey starts here. Making a difference together is not only more sustainable – it is also far more rewarding.

Anders Kottorp
Vice-Chancellor, University of Gävle