Mid Sweden University expands its investment in Sámi education and research
Several new positions, a new three-year cooperation agreement with the Gaaltije Foundation and the launch of the first course in South Sámi. With these measures, Mid Sweden University strengthens its ambitions to take increased responsibility as a university in Saepmie.
"Two years ago, as the only Swedish university in the South Sámi region, we signed a letter of intent that means that we, through our research and education, will be part of or collaborate with the Sámi community. Since then, we have invested SEK 8 million in order to stimulate and encourage further research, education and collaboration linked to the Sami community, as well as establishing new services, says Anders Fällström, Vice-Chancellor of Mid Sweden University.
The main purpose of the letter of intent signed in 2022 was to, in collaboration with Sami organisations and municipal activities, identify Mid Sweden University's role in the Sami area and, based on this, contribute to increased knowledge about and for the Sami community.
In 2024, Mid Sweden University is now investing in four new positions linked to Sámi education and research. These are two research positions (so-called postdoc positions), a central administrator for Sámi issues and a lecturer in South Sámi.
"This summer we will also be conducting our first summer course in South Sámi and recently we signed another collaboration agreement with the Gaaltije Foundation, which means continued collaboration for the next three years. It is very gratifying that we can take further steps in the direction of strengthening our operations in this way, says Anna Olofsson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Mid Sweden University.
Mid Sweden University has already initiated research projects on Sámi influence at the municipal level and new courses have been developed in gender studies, history and nursing. To this must be added a feasibility study on the construction of the South Sámi Language Centre in collaboration with Östersund Municipality.
Contact person:
Anna Olofsson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Mid Sweden University, anna.olofsson@miun.se, 010-142 84 67