Education and research

The Government’s Research and Innovation Bill outlines the direction of Sweden’s research policy over the next four years. The resources will increase considerably already next year to tackle major societal challenges and safeguard freedom of research. The aim is for Sweden to be one of the world’s foremost research and innovation countries and a prominent knowledge nation. The appropriation will increase by SEK 3.4 billion in 2021. The estimated investments in 2022, 2023 and 2024 are around SEK 3.2. billion, SEK 3.3 billion and SEK 3.75 billion respectively. Research and innovation are needed to restart the economy and build skills, competitiveness and welfare.

Minister for Higher Education and Research Matilda Ernkrans is attending a ministerial conference on the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) today, Thursday 19 November. The agenda includes discussions on higher education in Europe and the adoption of the Rome Ministerial Communiqué. Ms Ernkrans will also deliver a speech.

Sweden’s national life sciences strategy was launched in late December 2019 to strengthen the long-term competitiveness of Sweden as a life sciences nation.

"Sweden aims to be a leading life sciences nation. Life sciences contribute to improving health and quality of life of the population, ensuring economic prosperity, advancing the country as a leading knowledge nation and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development."

Minister for Higher Education and Research Matilda Ernkrans is attending a conference on the future European Research Area (ERA) today, Tuesday 20 October. The agenda includes the ERA, freedom of research and the adoption of the Bonn Declaration. Ms Ernkrans will attend digitally.

Today, Tuesday 13 October, Minister for Higher Education and Research Matilda Ernkrans is participating in a digital event organised by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Ms Ernkrans will participate in a panel discussion about what universities and other higher education institutions can do to address climate change and promote sustainable development.

In an increasingly uncertain world, the risk of nuclear weapons being used is greater than it has been for a long time, and education, research and information for the public are needed in this area. The Swedish Research Council has now been tasked with collecting expressions of interest and proposing a university or other higher education institution to receive funding for the establishment of a national knowledge centre for nuclear disarmament.

Research and innovation are crucial to Sweden’s competitiveness and to rebooting the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic. In the autumn budget, the Government is therefore proposing increased funding to Vinnova, RISE and Business Sweden for measures that help reboot Sweden. The proposal is based on an agreement between the Government, the Centre Party and the Liberal Party.

The University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is being strengthened to meet educational needs and fight unemployment due to the COVID-19 crisis. SLU will receive additional funding that will enable it to offer more places on educational programmes in shortage occupations and for lifelong learning.

At a press briefing on June 11, Minister for Education Anna Ekström explained the Swedish decision to not close down the entire school system.