Global Impact- Gemini Center

The launch event brought together leaders, researchers, and experts dedicated to fostering equitable partnerships for global impact. 

Led by Rolee Aranya (NTNU), leader of the Gemini Center, and Petter Støa (SINTEF), co-leader of the Gemini Center, the event was marked by insightful discussions and valuable contributions from invited guests. The audience was welcomed by Marit Reitan, Pro-Rector for Education NTNU, and Siri Hunnes Blakstad, Vice President SINTEF Community, underscoring the importance of the Gemini Center for the two institutions. The event featured inspiring presentations by Bhola Thapa (Kathmandu University), Jan Carel Diehl (TU Delft) and Gunvor Wittersø Skancke (NORAD), who shared their perspectives on the importance of transdisciplinary and sustainable partnerships to address global challenges. The speakers shared their own experiences in North-South partnerships and how bridging research, innovation and capacity building is key to achieving a greater and more lasting positive impact.

The center builds on the ongoing process of operationalizing the new Strategic Areas of Research at NTNU and the Strategic Area on Global Sustainable Development at SINTEF.

The objectives for the upcoming years are to establish a joint platform for SINTEF and NTNU that advances transdisciplinary research and innovation to tackle societal challenges through equitable partnerships with institutions in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) as well as to better understand how research and innovation can respond to the development and relief nexus priorities among actors focusing on LMICs.

The launch of the Gemini Center “Equitable Partnerships for Global Impact” by SINTEF and NTNU represents a pivotal moment in addressing the urgent call of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and marks the beginning of a journey towards building a more sustainable and equitable world.