Strategy 2025 - 2028
Committed to humanity – locally and globally
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Background and University Initiative
VID Specialized University was established in 2016 through the merger of several colleges with roots dating back to 1843. Throughout its long history, VID has been intertwined with a history characterised by pioneering efforts to promote human dignity and social justice in Norway and on the international stage. With a strong emphasis on capacity building and knowledge development, VID has played a vital role in establishing institutions, organisations, and new services within the health and welfare sectors, as well as in the church and wider civil society.
Since adopting its strategic plan for 2018-2028, VID has been committed to becoming a values-based university grounded in universal academic values and ideals, alongside the ecclesiastical and diaconal traditions that define its identity. VID’s strategy for 2025-2028 aims to support its goal of successfully applying for accreditation as a university within this timeframe.
Values foundation
VID is founded on a holistic Christian understanding of humanity and on diaconal values. Every individual possesses inherent dignity and intrinsic worth. VID promotes openness and respect for diverse beliefs, worldviews, and values.
VID seeks to nurture and educate students who pursue truth, engage in critical thinking, and uphold freedom of expression. VID's values can be summarised in the following principles:
Social Mission
VID is dedicated to offering high-quality education and conducting research and professional development at a high international level, in close collaboration with relevant partners and the wider society locally and globally. Our goal is to educate skilled, reflective, and courageous graduates and professionals in health sciences, social studies, theology, diaconal studies, and social sciences.
VID will place a strong emphasis on reducing social inequality, fostering a sense of community, and supporting individuals in vulnerable situations.
Prioritised Sustainable Development Goals
VID is committed to being an active contributor and advocate for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals under Agenda 2030. Based on its history, study programme portfolio, and research efforts, VID will prioritise the following Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
VID's prioritised Sustainable Development Goals are:
