UiB wishes to offer 250 study places to refugees
UiB can accept 250 Ukrainian refugees as students and is planning courses in Norwegian and in academic English for them this summer.
Main content
- The University of Bergen (UiB) already has extensive experience in receiving international students, both for short-term stays and degree studies. We have practise in integrating international students both academically and socially, says Rector Margareth Hagen.
In a letter to the Ministry of Education and Research (KD), UiB is now asking for 250 extra study places for refugees. The work of finding good solutions for the Ukrainian students is well underway.
Flexible solutions
- We have previously reported to KD that we will show great flexibility when it comes to establishing an offer for Ukrainian students. Therefore, we do not propose a specific number of study places within different subject areas, but will put together study courses that are suitable for the individual student, says Hagen.
This autumn, UiB offers around 60 master's programs and 190 courses taught in English. No complete bachelor's program is offered in English, but it is possible to scale up the study offer within most subject areas.
In the letter to KD, UiB supports UiO's proposal that students should be settled where there are relevant study offers, and that a simplified mapping of qualifications should take place prior to settlement.
Collaborates with the municipality and Sammen
Work is underway to develop a course in academic English for refugees who want to start studies in the autumn. This course will be offered in June / July. In addition, a course in Norwegian language, culture and society is planned.
- An elemental course is currently planned for this summer, and then a second course that builds on this can be taken parallel with any studies in the autumn. We also know that the need for information among the refugees is great, and we are in the process of planning an open meeting for everyone who lives in Bergen. We will inform about the newly created course offerings in Norwegian and English, and about the opportunities to study with us this autumn, says Hagen.
UiB is also in dialogue with Bergen municipality about measures for facilitation, integration and settlement of refugees. There is also close collaboration between UiB and Sammen - Studentsamskipnaden på Vestlandet on housing issues and the need for counseling, psychologist and health services for Ukrainian students.