A process plan for the work is being developed and will be negotiated with the unions on 17 September. As part of the process, the suggestion is that work groups and an internal reference group, both with collegial representation, will contribute to the content of the plan and provide feedback. It has also been suggested that external reference groups should be included in the work.
Five defined focus areas as a point of departure
During the current strategy period (2020–2026), the university has implemented several changes. These include the conditions for cohesive academic environments and increased collegial influence, as well as a new agreement on work time that will strengthen the connection between education and research. As well, the university has the right to award four degrees at the doctoral level; it has a solid number of applicants to programmes; and it has two campuses, one newly renovated and one newly built.
Based on this, the University Governing Board has established five focus areas for the strategic plan:
- Continue the development of the collegial running of academic activities and operations. This is to build up the research culture and the connection between research and education, and to give the collegial organisation greater powers and responsibilities in these areas.
- Determine priorities for the choice of courses and programmes, and consolidate the cohesive academic environments. Strong and cohesive academic environments also strengthen the research environments and create an economy that makes continued development possible.
- Continue to develop strong research environments and increase research work through increased external funding. This is so that the university can compete for funding, attract researchers and increase the publication of research results.
- Develop and initiate the implementation of a cohesive internationalisation strategy. The university currently lacks an overall strategy for internationalisation. A strategic and systematic approach is necessary to develop both education and research.
- Develop and begin implementing strategic partnerships with other higher education institutions. Partnerships are important for creating strong, creative and sustainable education and research environments, and they contribute to our ability to achieve our strategic goals
Once the strategic plan has been formally adopted, implementation will take place within regular operational planning, where goals, activities and responsibilities are broken down to the levels of university school (institution), department (avdelning) and unit (enhet).
You will be able to follow the progress of the work on the staff website. A meeting is also planned for the autumn, where you will have the opportunity to be part of discussions.
Frequent questions
Is the plan to draw up a new strategy?
No, the strategic plan aims to build on the current strategy, hence the term "strategic plan". The plan will help us in our work to achieve our vision.
Why do we need a strategic plan?
We need such a plan so that Dalarna University can develop further within five designated focus areas and so that the plan can form the basis for operational planning in the period 2027–2030.
How will the process work?
Work forms will be developed in a process plan that is negotiated with the unions during MBL. More details will be shared when the plan has been approved.
What sort of timeline are we talking about?
Proposals must be submitted to the University Governing Board for decision by the end of February 2026. The process of developing proposals for a strategic plan will take place in the autumn of 2025. A timeframe has been set that enables the approved strategic plan to serve as a foundation for the future planning of activities and operations.
Will employees be involved in the process?
Participation will take place primarily through collegial representatives. Not all employees will participate directly, but everyone will have the opportunity to follow the process and ask questions at the upcoming meeting.
Which part of the plan will directly affect my area of work?
Concrete goals, activities, timelines and responsibilities will be developed in the process. Once the plan has been decided, it will be clearer how university schools, departments, units and employees will be affected.
How will the plan affect my daily work in 2025/2026?
It won't at all. Simply continue to work as usual – the work to arrive at proposals for a strategic plan does not affect your current priorities.
How will the strategic plan affect my work between 2027 and 2030?
Implementation of the plan will take place within the framework of the regular planning of operations and activities. When the goals, activities and responsibilities are made concrete, it will become clear how each unit and employee can contribute to the daily work.
When will the plan be ready?
The University Governing Board is expected to decide at the end of February 2026. Once the plan has been approved, the next steps for implementation and how units can contribute will be communicated more clearly.
Who makes the final decision?
The University Governing Board will make the final decision on the strategic plan based on proposals developed by the organisation.
How and where do I get ongoing information about the process?
Information will be available on a special information page on the staff website (medarbetarwebben). A meeting is also planned where employees can ask questions and be involved in the discussion.
How can I get answers to questions that are not listed here?
Questions can be put directly to the process leader, Marie Murmester.