A new autumn semester has just begun. In my view, this is one of the most exciting times of the academic year at the university. There is a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Our campuses become more vibrant with early activities, welcome events, student gatherings and, of course, many reunions following the summer break.
In many respects, the start of this academic year may resemble previous autumn terms. However, there are also several features that give autumn 2026 its own distinctive character. Our welcome activities continue to develop year by year. Much of this takes place in collaboration with Karlstad Municipality, which is important because new students are not only being welcomed to the university, but also to the city as a whole.
At the same time, developments are taking place across the university and within the campus environment itself. University Square has begun a refurbishment which, once completed, will create new green spaces, meeting places and a more welcoming setting for all our visitors. Looking over a longer period, many of the paved areas and squares between our buildings have also changed in character. New planting schemes and facilities have been introduced, helping to enhance the campus environment. Particularly at this time of late summer, these transformed spaces provide attractive places to meet, spend time and enjoy campus life.
Another feature of this autumn’s intake is the increased number of international programme students. At the time of writing, there are 122 students from 30 countries, including 81 from outside Europe. This is not an exceptionally large number, but it represents a group that we have not previously reached to the same extent. It is encouraging to see that our efforts to attract more international students are already producing results. Their numbers are significantly higher than in previous years, and they bring new perspectives and ideas to our university. The exchange of experiences and viewpoints that follows is valuable and contributes to a more international character across the institution.
I know that many people have been involved in these various welcome activities for both Swedish and international students, from colleagues in administrative roles to, of course, those involved in teaching. The work begins well before the start of term, encompassing everything from guidance about study choices and admissions to the many practical matters that new students encounter. I believe that the effort you put into this work helps students feel genuinely welcomed and gives them an excellent start to their university journey. It is difficult to imagine a more rewarding outcome than making someone feel truly welcome.
