Campus Total Defence is originally an initiative from the Swedish Defence University, Luleå University of Technology, and Örebro University. It forms a strategic network of Swedish universities that can collectively contribute expertise to Sweden's defence capabilities. The focus is primarily on providing and further educating personnel in various branches of the defence sector.
Richard Torkar, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, represents the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers in the working group assembled by the Association of Swedish Higher Education Institutions (SUHF). The latest government budget allocated 30 million SEK to prepare and run Campus Total Defence starting from 1 April 2025, with an additional 10 million SEK in funding from the KK Foundation.
"The working group was established to support total defence – that is, the Armed Forces and Civil Defence. The initiative came about in connection with Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Sweden's NATO membership. Over 30 universities have agreed to participate, showing a strong national interest and commitment," says Richard Torkar.
Universities are reviewing courses
Chalmers and the University of Gothenburg are currently reviewing their courses to identify those suitable for total defence personnel, which also includes, for example, County administrative boards.
"This could involve relevant courses in civil engineering, such as water supply and logistics. The idea is to think broadly and include anything that might benefit defence capabilities," says Richard Torkar.
The courses will then be marketed to the relevant personnel, allowing universities to contribute to Sweden's security by enhancing and developing the competence of total defence personnel.
"There will be no major changes here at the university or at Chalmers; we will use existing courses and resources but offer them through a new platform," says Richard Torkar.
Universities are also expected to propose research areas they can coordinate or participate in.
Besides contributing to national security, what effects does this collaboration have for the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers as universities?
"We can position ourselves and create something similar to Areas of Advance at a national level. This could eventually lead to attracting more research funding, including international funds," says Richard Torkar.
Do you see any risks or problems with universities engaging in national security?
"I can see a potential tension, especially related to military defence. However, we have academic freedom, which means we cannot and do not want to force anyone to participate in, for example, a research project."
So far, Richard Torkar has not encountered any such conflicts.
"I can say that for all the requests we have received to support total defence over the past two years, we have had an enormous number of volunteers. Many see that we must help – it is ultimately about our security."
Those interested can contribute
The fact that Richard Torkar was asked to take on the assignment is partly due to his own background as a professional officer. Additionally, his department is jointly integrated between Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg, making it practical for him to represent both institutions in Gothenburg. He now hopes to receive more proposals for courses and research from colleagues eager to contribute.
"I encourage anyone who feels they want to help to get in touch with me to share their ideas and perspectives."
Interview and original text: Erik Krång, Media relations and internal communications, Chalmers
Adapted for the University of Gothenburg: Catharina Jerkbrant
