The University of Iceland and the University of Bergen intend to strengthen their cooperative relationship in research, teaching, promoting science, and student and staff exchange. This is stated in the Memorandum of Understanding the two university Rectors, Jón Atli Benediktsson and Dag Rune Olsen, signed in Bergen yesterday in the presence of the President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, and Harald V the King of Norway.
Jón Atli Benediktsson and Steinunn Gestsdóttir, Pro-Rector of Academic Affairs are in the President of Iceland's entourage on his public visit to Norway and used the opportunity to strengthen the scientific ties between the two countries.
The University of Iceland and the University of Bergen currently collaborate in the Aurora network, a collaboration of nine distinguished European universities that share commitment to advancing social good, top quality research, social responsibility, and helping communities better tackle relevant challenges.
Jón Atli and Steinunn met with university administrators during their visit to discuss the collaboration and other issues. A gift from the University of Bergen to the new building for the Vigdís Finnbogadóttir Institute for Foreign Languages at the University of Iceland was confirmed, in the amount of 500.000 Norwegian crowns. The new building will be formally opened next month.
The two universities emphasize the importance of their scientific research as a vehicle for economic and social development in the new memorandum; recognizing the necessity and mutual benefit of cooperation between countries. The agreement lists cooperation in pre-designed research areas leaning on their strong ambitions and research traditions; such as earth and marine sciences and in life sciences, as well as research work in West Nordic languages.
This Memorandum of Understanding is in force from the date of signing for five years. Cooperative activities may include: mutual utilization of facilities and equipment, organisation of workshops and symposia, and exchange of personnel, students, information and data.