The UArctic Rectors Meeting 2024 featured a series of panels, discussions, and presentations focused on enhancing circumpolar cooperation and addressing global challenges through collaborative research and innovation.
The Meeting was opened with a video greeting from HSH Prince Albert II, the host of the 2023 UArctic Rectors' Meeting, followed by a welcome address from Hanne Solheim Hansen, Rector of Nord University. The morning sessions, moderated by UArctic President Lars Kullerud, delved into the role of collective intellectual capacity of UArctic members finding solution that help and advise governments.
Panel I: Circumpolar Cooperation
- Morten Høglund, Senior Arctic Official in the Arctic Council
- Julie Crôteau, Director for Nordic and Polar Relations at Global Affairs Canada
- Aslat Holmberg, President of Saami Council
- Karsten Henriksen, President and CEO of Northlands College
- Jean-François Marchi, Vice-President for International Relations at Aix-Marseille University
Panel II: Circumpolar Cooperation
- Eric Carlson, The United States Senior Arctic Official
- Jessica Veldstra, Executive Director of Aleut International Association
- Daniel White, Chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Tom Brown, Vice-Principal of Research at the University of St Andrews, Scotland
- Juho Kähkönen, UArctic Board Student Representative, University of Lapland
The afternoon sessions included a Panel Discussion featuring UArctic Chairs, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary research in tackling Arctic challenges.
- Hanne H. Christiansen - UArctic Chair in Permafrost Physical Processes
- Melody B. Burkins - UArctic Chair in Science Diplomacy and Inclusion
- Bing Chen - UArctic Chair in Marine and Coastal Environmental Engineering
- Kirk Anderson - UArctic Chair in School Effectiveness and School Improvement
- Jan Borm - UArctic Chair in Arctic Humanities
The meeting also showcased student presentations from the High North Dialogue Academy, presenting their work on "Arctic2050: Four Scenarios," which provided fresh perspectives on the future of the Arctic.
During the UArctic Rectors Meeting 2024 particiapnts departed with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared vision for the future of the Arctic, underscoring the vital role of academic and research institutions in shaping sustainable and resilient Arctic communities.