UNIC Working Conference in Oulu

We look back at a wonderful conference at the University of Oulu, where we met last week for days packed with ideas, discovery, and co-creation. Guided by the words of alliance coordinator Semiha Denktaş during the opening plenary, we were inspired to " break down the silos that limit our potential, encouraging collaboration across disciplines, departments, and campuses. Externally, we must extend our reach, working hand in hand with cities, industries, and communities to create impactful solutions."

The conference was jam-packed with engaging sessions: from how to create a blended intensive programme and developing city-engaged projects to learning about the art of storytelling and our first ever Societal Impact and Engagement Forum. And of course there was lots of time to network, create new connections, strengthen the old ones and have fun together!

One of many highlights: The founding charter of the UNIC Centre for City Futures was signed by the City of Oulu's Mayor, starting a new chapter to development of knowledge and trans-disciplinary research for pathbreaking university-city collaborations.

We leave the conference with lots of great energy for the next year: UNIC's amazing student board elected their new chair and vice-chair (Alexander Lueg and Arda Bulut!), our Thematic Lines pitched compelling projects to city partners, and we celebrated at a special reception hosted in Oulu's iconic City Hall. All in all, an intense and unforgettable week.

See below for a selection of photos from the conference, taken by Lasse Lehto and Juha Sarkkinen.