A small university with a big impact ‑ Anders Fällström looks to the future
When Anders Fällström took over as Vice-Chancellor, Mid Sweden University had existed for over a decade. At the time, it was still struggling to define its place in the Swedish university world. Today, several years later, the situation is different.
Thanks to purposeful work, successful recruitments and a stronger international profile, Mid Sweden University has stepped forward over the years – both regionally and globally.
"We have taken a big and important step in the international field by becoming a European University," says Anders Fällström. It makes us a player on the European stage and shows that we are relevant, not only regionally but also internationally. It also contributes to the development of our international operations.
An important cog in the region
Mid Sweden University has found a successful balance between its global ambitions and its regional role. With a long tradition of distance education and applied research, the university has become a central player in the supply of skills for, and the development of, Jämtland and Västernorrland. Anders Fällström describes the university's role as unique:
"We connect the global with the local in a way that few other universities can. Using our international activities in collaboration with both the public sector and the business community benefits all parties and stimulates good development.
Leader in distance learning – but looking towards campus
Mid Sweden University has long been perhaps the country's foremost higher education institution when it comes to distance education. Now we aim to develop the campus education and make it more attractive," says Anders Fällström.
"We need to invest in the campus environments and create a vibrant student city with a rich student life. For the region's future skills supply, it is important to maintain a balance between distance learning and campus.
He emphasizes that many of the university's students are older, have families and live far from the campuses. Therefore, it is crucial to offer flexible solutions that meet their needs while improving campus environments to attract more younger students.
Keys to success
Another issue that is close to Anders Fällström's heart is the collaboration with the region's municipalities, business and the public sector. He believes that the relationship has never been better.
"We have played an important role in getting Jämtland and Västernorrland to cooperate better and it is now starting to bear fruit for real. To develop the region, we must work together, not compete.
Mid Sweden University has also integrated culture as part of its mission. Initiatives such as Science and Scenes and the Children's University show how science and culture can work together to inspire both students and the public. And the importance of arousing interest in education from a young age cannot be overemphasized, he believes.
"In our counties, where the transition rate to higher education is low, it is crucial to increase interest in science early. We must involve children, parents and the whole of society. Everyone should know that the opportunity for higher education exists, even if not everyone will then continue their studies," he says.
A look into the crystal ball
Despite a tougher economic reality, Anders Fällström is optimistic about the future. He believes that research and education will be increasingly integrated and that Mid Sweden University's community involvement will play an even greater role in the future.
"We are one of the few players that can contribute international expertise to the region. It's crucial to think in new ways and avoid getting stuck in old patterns," he says.