Educational Leadership in Indigenous Sites (ELIS) – The case of Saepmie

In northern Sweden, within the area called Saepmie, Saami and non-Saami live and work integrated. Here, school leaders have a particularly important role in creating understanding, respect and knowledge of Saami languages, traditions and rights. Despite this, research shows that many principals lack the knowledge required to meet these issues in their everyday lives.

This research project, led by Sandra Lund, aims to map and deepen the understanding of how principals in Saami administrative municipalities perceive their assignment, what knowledge they have about Saami perspectives – and what challenges they face. The project runs from October 2, 2025 to September 31, 2026.

Conflicts over land use, based on tourism and the need for minerals and other natural resources in Saepmie, have increased in recent years. At the same time, there is often a lack of knowledge about Saami culture and history among decision-makers. Schools have a key role in preventing future conflicts by imparting knowledge and creating encounters between cultures. But how equipped are school leaders for this task?

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to describe and understand principals' knowledge about and actions related to Saami traditions and language in Saami administrative municipalities.

1. How do principals describe and understand their assignment as principal in Saami administrative municipalities?
2. What knowledge do Swedish principals have about Saami language and traditions in Saami administrative municipalities?
3. What conditions and possible dilemmas do principals face in Saami administrative municipalities?

Method

The study is carried out in four work packages:

1. Literature review of previous research on educational leadership in indigenous contexts.
2. Research circles with principals to discuss experiences, dilemmas and knowledge gaps.
3. Survey aimed at principals in Saami administrative municipalities.
4. Dissemination of results through a popular science book chapter and a scientific article.

Meaning

The project contributes with new knowledge about school leadership in a unique Swedish context where Saami and non-Saami share an educational environment. The results can form the basis for future educational initiatives, policy development and research – both nationally and internationally.