Important topics and a good working environment – the basis for attracting good people

Recruiting new students for our bachelor education is proving challenging for many reasons. That is unfortunate, as we are working with one of the most important issues in society: How do we achieve a sustainable food production and consumption? How can we live within the planetary boundaries – fulfilling our needs for food, materials, energy – while keeping the balance with climate, biodiversity, clean water and healthy soils?

26 May 2025 by Marie Trydeman Knudsen

Currently, our planet is approaching tipping points showing us that we have not found that balance yet, and we are deteriorating the fundament upon which we depend. The fundament that we should hand over to younger generations. It's a huge challenge and solutions are urgently needed, whether it is technological solutions or fundamental changes in the systems or both.

Leaving behind polluted waters and weather extremes like drought and flooding for coming generations does not make the future easier for them – and many young people are concerned about this. They care about climate change, choose vegetarian lifestyles, and they buy second-hand clothes. Those young people could potentially be very interested in our educations, but we need to find them and tell them about our work.

At the same time there are barriers that prevent some of the young people to enrol in an education out here – and some of the barriers we cannot break down, but we can do our best to tell young people that this is a very important topic with good prospects for their future – including a good working environment.

A good working environment is essential for all of us. Life must be sustainable for all of us individually. A good working environment where we can thrive and blossom and feel safe and inspired – and where we respect each other. Where we respect each other’s cultures, personality and scientific areas, irrespective of titles, gender, and cultural background. To me respect is a central word in all relations between human beings.

When I first arrived 21 years ago – I was very impressed by the spirit out here. The collaborative, respectful and cosy spirit – which I believe is the reason why I stayed here for so many years. I really think we should take very good care of that! Then the students might also eventually see the treasures out here…