Why do you want to run for the Board of the University of Oslo?
I wish to elevate the value of education and knowledge in society and ensure that the University of Oslo continues as a leading European institution for knowledge production and dissemination. Temporary academic staff account for around a third of the scientific output at UiO and need a clear voice on the university board to advocate for our interests.
My key issues
Mental Health
There are far too many who are struggling, feeling a lack of mastery, and experiencing feelings of inadequacy. It is therefore crucial to ensure that there is a good support system in place and that we can prevent health issues and mental difficulties. Mental health involves much more than just seeking a therapist. On the contrary, it can involve being part of a collegial community, building networks, and experiencing recognition for one’s contributions. To make academia and UiO a safe and inclusive place, it is important to create a culture where it is acceptable not to perform at the highest level all the time, where it is okay to talk about the challenges one faces, and where individuals feel they can be themselves. Even as academics, it is essential to recognise that we are whole people, more than just our academic achievements. When challenges do become overwhelming, it is important that individuals receive support to seek professional help.
Supervision
Supervision is one of the most important factors determining whether one can produce work and achieve the goals outlined in their contracts. Creating good and supportive supervisory relationships is therefore crucial. From the supervisor's perspective, it can be challenging to guide doctoral candidates and other temporary staff, which highlights the need for training in this role. It is vital for UiO to develop good courses that educate supervisors on how to function as effectively as possible. Supervision should not only focus on highlighting areas for improvement and weaknesses but should also recognise strengths and potential in those being supervised. It is important that supervision is experienced as support and assistance rather than as a control mechanism or performance arena. Occasionally, for various reasons, not all supervisory relationships may function optimally, and it is important that changing supervisors is not stigmatised.
Academic freedom
It is heartbreaking to look around the world and continually see examples of restrictions and attacks on academic freedom. As a university, we must stand together for scientific ideals and ensure the best possible conditions for education, research, and the application of knowledge. This includes ensuring that funding is not reduced to the greatest extent possible. Safeguarding academic freedom is not only about ensuring that researchers are not persecuted but also about contributing to creating a more enlightened society where knowledge is recognised and used for the benefit of all. It is therefore important to ensure that as many as possible have access to education, have the opportunity to read and acquire research findings free of charge, and that we secure dissemination arenas such as a free press and close contact between academia and the wider society. This way, we can build a solid knowledge base. However, it is also vital to focus on the international situation, where we must stand up for and support researchers who are being persecuted.
Election platform
- Ensure the development of good supervision courses for as many supervisors as possible at UiO.
- Prevent cuts in national funding for UiO from resulting in cuts to temporary academic positions.
- Focus on mental and social health, making it clearer where help can be obtained and what measures can be implemented to prevent unhappiness.
- Solidarity support for researchers who are subjected to attacks on academic freedom.
About me
After 15 years at UiO and extensive experience in student politics, as the leader of UiODoc and the leader of the Doctoral Organizations in Norway, I wish to be a clear voice for all temporary academic staff at UiO.
Nominators
- Karl Henrik Storhaug Rein?s, UV
- Johannes S?rby Heines, MN
- Anjali Choubey, MN
- Lei Wang, UV
- Qingqing Shao, MN
- Kishore Thapliyal, MN