During this mission, UNamur highlighted its expertise in vaccinology, infectious diseases, and pandemic preparedness, particularly during sessions focused on health crisis management and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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Photo d'Annick Castiaux

 This week, I had the opportunity to take part in the state visit to Norway. It was a chance to discuss the major challenges facing European universities with Norwegian universities and to explore the issues surrounding research funding with the various funding agencies from both our countries. 

Annick Castiaux President
Photo de la délégation belge

She also contributed to the discussion on two key issues: “On the one hand, the role of the humanities and social sciences and their importance in a ‘comprehensive’ university model capable not only of offering a holistic understanding and practical solutions to current challenges, but also of preparing for a future that will require the development of a creative vision of humanity,” explains Annick Castiaux. “And secondly, on the impacts of AI in research: both the incredible opportunities these technologies offer in a growing number of fields and the challenges of maintaining control over their use—both to avoid confining ourselves to conventional or biased paths and to protect the intellectual property of our researchers and our regions in a tense geopolitical context.”
  

The mission aimed to increase UNamur’s international visibility, showcase its scientific expertise, expand its network of partners, and strengthen existing collaborations with Norway. It is fully aligned with the University of Namur’s international strategy and its commitment to actively contributing to addressing major challenges in health, innovation, and sustainability at the European level.