Foreword

Co-operation within the Council of Ministers for Education and Research (MR-U) is based on the premise that co-operation in the areas of education, research and language is an important tool in allowing us to address national and international challenges. The ambition is that through Nordic co-operation, we can establish enhanced conditions for high-quality education and research.

The Nordic countries share fundamental common values, a strong democratic tradition and a common history; however, our countries are also sufficiently different that we are able to compare our experiences and learn from one another. It is precisely by standing together that we are able to develop and become stronger.

Education, research and language are essential to resolving society’s challenges; however, these issues cannot be dealt with in isolation. It is also important for co-operation in this area to occur in co-ordination with Nordic collaboration in the areas of culture, integration and the labour market. This work seeks to address particularly complex societal challenges within which the Nordic Region as a whole can improve even further: Are we delivering the best possible education both for the individual and for society? Can we anticipate the best solutions and set clear priorities? Are we utilising the potential we have here in the Nordic Region?

The Co-operation Programme sets the direction for Nordic co-operation and reflects the priorities of the Nordic school, education and research ministers for co-operation in the period between now and 2030.

The co-operation programme is ambitious. It shows that Nordic co-operation has a relevant foundation and stands in a strong position. At the same time, it is also essential that we further bolster our co-operation. The goals that we have set therefore also reflect the responsibility that we have as ministers to set clear priorities and establish a clear agenda for yet even stronger collaboration. It is our ambition that the programme will play a role in strengthening Nordic co-operation at all levels.

Lotta Edholm
Swedish Minister for Schools

Johan Pehrson
Swedish Minister for Education

Karen Ellemann
Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers