FISU delegation visits Östersund during planning for 2026 World Forum
On 17–18 June, Mid Sweden University and the Swedish Academic Sports Confederation (SAIF) received a delegation from the International University Sports Federation (FISU). The visit was a step in the planning for the FISU World Forum, which will be held in Östersund on 24–28 August 2026.
The purpose of the visit was to deepen the cooperation and lay the foundation for an inspiring and well-organized event with participants from all over the world. During their stay in Östersund the delegation had a full program. They met with researchers from ETOUR, the National Winter Sports Centre (NVC), the Sport Tech Research Centre and the Department of Psychology and Social Work (PSO) to discuss how Mid Sweden University's research and expertise can contribute to the content of the forum.
“These were very productive days visiting the venues planned for the 2026 FISU World Forum and sharing ideas on how we can create a unique and enriching experience for each participant,” said Lilia Barieva, Education & Culture Director at FISU.
A platform to share knowledge and common values
The FISU World Forum has been held every two years since 1992 and brings together students, academics and sports leaders from all over the world. The aim is to promote international cooperation on student sports, education and health. The event includes lectures, workshops and activities in culture, sports and education.
"The forum enables broad collaboration between academia, society and civil society – both locally and globally. It serves as a platform to share our knowledge and our values, and creating long-term relationships that strengthen the university's education, research and community engagement," says Anders Fällström, Vice-Chancellor of Mid Sweden University.
Strong support for a global event
There is a strong local and national commitment to the FISU World Forum 2026. Lilia Barieva highlights the collaboration that is now emerging:
”The unwavering support for this event from all levels reflects a collective commitment to making this event unforgettable.”
The Swedish Academic Sports Confederation is also looking forward to hosting the event:
"After our joint visit to Östersund together with FISU, we are even more looking forward to, together with Mid Sweden University, hosting next year's FISU World Forum. It feels fantastic to be able to showcase Swedish student sports in collaboration with a university where sports research is conducted – and where the local community is behind it. Can it get any better? says Anette Löhnn, Secretary General of the Swedish Academic Sports Confederation.
Planning is in full swing and together with our partners, we look forward to welcoming 200 participants from over 40 countries to Östersund and Mid Sweden University in August 2026.
Mid Sweden University hosts the FISU World Forum in collaboration with the Swedish Academic Sports Confederation (SAIF), Östersund Municipality and Region Jämtland Härjedalen.
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