Knowledge and leadership in an uncertain world – how is Sweden’s future shaped? Three university presidents on power and responsibility.

2026-06-23
12:45 - 13:30
Cramérgatan 3, Room E35 – floor 3, Visby
In a time marked by rapid technological advances, geopolitical tensions, and increasing polarisation, access to reliable knowledge becomes a strategic issue—not merely an academic one.
Foto av en kvinna och två män
Annika Östman Wernerson, rektor vid Karolinska Institutet, Anders Söderholm, rektor vid KTH, och Hans Adolfsson, rektor vid Stockholms universitet och ordförande i Sveriges universitets- och högskoleförbund (SUHF).

Sweden has world-leading universities. Yet both researchers and decision-makers report that knowledge is not being fully utilised. Where does the gap arise – and who is responsible for bridging it?

In this timely discussion at Almedalen, the presidents of Karolinska Institutet, KTH, and Stockholm University come together for a joint conversation led by Anna Serner. Together, they explore the role of universities in society and how they contribute to Sweden’s development, innovation, and adaptability to rapidly changing conditions. They will discuss:

  • Who really sets the agenda in a knowledge-driven society
  • How research can be translated more quickly into political and business-critical decisions
  • What is required of today’s leaders to navigate uncertainty

This is a conversation for those who lead, influence, or invest in Sweden’s future.

The seminar is organised by Stockholm Science City in collaboration with Karolinska Institutet, KTH, and Stockholm University. Light refreshments will be served. Seating is limited – first come, first served. 

Participants

Annika Östman Wernerson, President, Karolinska Institutet

Anders Söderholm, President, KTH

Hans Adolfsson, President, Stockholm University and Chair of the Association of Swedish Higher Education Institutions (SUHF)

Anna Serner (Moderator), Vice Chair of the Swedish Media Academy, which, among other things, produces the annual Trust Barometer