Talking to External Contacts

Over the past couple of weeks, Lars Even, Inger and I have been talking to a number of PRIO’s key external contacts in Oslo. In the process of developing PRIO’s new strategy, we have wanted to conduct a reality-check on our understanding of the conditions we should expect to work under for the next few years. A nice side-effect is that this also becomes a platform for discussing our key concerns with influential people. Another is that it allows the new PRIO leadership to introduce itself. So far, we have talked to Abelia, the Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (twice), NORAD, the Research Council and the University of Oslo. We have one meeting in spare, with the director of the RCN.

It has been a remarkably positive experience. Our key worries - such as the government’s ambition to strengthen the applied character of the institute sector – have been confirmed. Simultaneously, we get reminded of PRIO’s reputation, as academically excellent and as a best practice institution in research management. Therefore, many argue, we should not be too worried, as our quality will always be rewarded. That may end up proving to be true, but not unless we work systematically towards that end. The conversations lead to ideas for collaboration, as well as issues to place on our lobbying list. On Monday, Inger will give a brief orientation to the LG. What we learn will inform the new strategy and shall also inform our everyday efforts in the coming years. It has given both inspiration and direction.