The UiS board decided in its June 12 meeting to end activities related to ECIU University. However, the board wants membership in the ECIU network to continue.
The decision was made with 7 votes in favour and 4 votes against and was in line with the rector's recommendation.
A proposal from the students to continue the participation was voted down. A proposal to send the matter back for a new investigation was also voted down.
The engagement will be terminated at the end of the current agreement period in November 2026.
UiS’ participation in ECIU (European Consortium of Innovative Universities) has been evaluated as a result of the restructuring at the university and the challenging financial situation that UiS is facing. The matter has generated a lot of debate and engagement.
A working group, which was set up to evaluate the membership, did not reach an agreement and submitted two reports. Both reports are included in the case presentation to the board, which can be read here (in Norwegian only).
The majority of the faculties have recommended ending both membership in ECIU and activity through ECIU University, due to high costs and limited benefits. However, the rector recommended to continue membership in the network.