Holiday Greetings from the Rector of the University of Iceland

Holiday greetings from Jón Atli Benediktsson, rector of the Unviersity of Iceland in the year 2021.

"Dear friend of the University of Iceland.

There are such sharp contrasts in our surroundings now that Christmas is approaching with its excessive ocean of light. When the short day has taken over the northern hemisphere, the lights become brighter. The Imagine Peace Tower is a creation of the multi-artist Yoko Ono, intended not only to honour her husband, the musician John Lennon, but it is also our guiding light for world peace. 

Of course many people realize that we Icelanders, this tiny nation on the far side of the ocean are not meant to have a decisive influence on world peace. Nevertheless, Yoko Ono chose Iceland as the location for the Imagine Peace Tower, which should symbolically guide us on the path to peace. Remember, said Yoko, each one of us has the power to change the world.

The year is almost at an end and it has been difficult for us in many ways. But the resilience of our students and staff has resulted in the University work being, after all, mostly normal this autumn and winter. For that I am more grateful than word can describe.

Unfortunately, there are reports about further spread of COVID-19 but continued infection control is extremely important in protecting society throughout the New Year.

Nowadays daylight is very scarce but Winter Solstice heralds changing times. The sun rises gradually in the sky that eventually awakens spring here in the northern hemipshere. Let us keep in mind that better times are ahead and our success against the virus will be achieved through research and solidarity.

"Listen to the light that burns quietly in your breast, no matter what storms may come," wrote Njörður P. Njarðvík, professor emeritus at the University of Iceland. 

Dear friend of the University of Iceland.

Let's follow Njörður's advice. Follow the light and go with hope into the new year. 

I wish you a wonderful festive season and a prosperous coming year."

The University of Iceland wishes you a peaceful holiday and a prosperous New Year