University of Groningen hosts University of Oslo delegation to explore Global University Academy collaboration

On Wednesday 18 March 2026, the University of Groningen welcomed a delegation from the University of Oslo for a full day of discussions on future collaboration with the Global University Academy (GUA).

GUA is a global initiative focusing on expanding access to higher education in refugee camps. By leveraging academic partnerships and innovative educational models, the initiative aims to provide sustainable learning opportunities for displaced communities.

The Oslo delegation, consisting of Marianne Knarud and Professor Svein Stølen, engaged with a wide range of Groningen colleagues and faculties. The programme began at the University Medical Center Groningen, where they met with the Vice Dean and Professor Ymkje Stienstra to exchange insights on global health and education in fragile contexts.

At the Faculty of Arts, the delegation met with the Vice Dean and colleagues from the NOHA (Network on Humanitarian Action) programme, discussing shared expertise in humanitarian education. A joint lunch with the Committee of Deans and the University Board provided an opportunity to reflect on institutional ambitions and the strategic importance of international collaboration within the GUA framework.

In the afternoon, the visit continued with a session on educational innovation where Groningen experts presented developments in digital credentials and MOOCs, exploring how these tools can support flexible and scalable education in refugee settings.The visit concluded at the Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences, where the Oslo delegation met with the Vice Dean and Professor Josje van der Linden.

The University of Groningen looks back on a productive and inspiring visit. The outcomes will be further explored both internally and externally, with the aim of developing concrete joint initiatives under the Global University Academy in the near future.