"We’d love to come back to Gothenburg"
In early May, the University of Gothenburg hosted the EUTOPIA Innovation Challenge. Over four days, 80 students from across Europe gathered in Gothenburg to develop innovative solutions to real-world case studies on the theme of the sustainable city.
Between workshops, social events and presentations, they also had time to experience a city showing itself at its best – with spring sunshine, the archipelago and a campus right in the city centre. Four of the students are from the University of Lisbon – one of ten institutions in the EUTOPIA alliance – and describe their visit as both surprising and educational.
João Mira says he had a clear picture of Scandinavia but has now completely re-evaluated his view. "I thought people here would be more reserved, but it’s been the complete opposite. People have been incredibly friendly and open."
They find Gothenburg to be a peaceful and green city, which is both accessible and easy to navigate. "The big advantage is that you can walk everywhere. You feel at home straight away," says Fausto Figuieredo.
Worked on societal challenges
The enthusiasm also extended to the project. Two of them worked on a project focusing on how to promote physical activity among primary school pupils. They visited a local authority school in a suburb of Gothenburg, with a modern school playground and proximity to green spaces. Maria points out that there are major differences between schools in Sweden and Portugal.
"Swedish schools are larger and have more nature around them, with large playgrounds. In Portugal, there are hardly any school playgrounds. Furthermore, children walk or cycle to school, whereas in Portugal they are usually driven by car. This also affects the children’s physical activity."
Interdisciplinary teams provided new perspectives
They feel it has been rewarding to work on real-world cases in interdisciplinary teams. "We come from different academic backgrounds – psychology, economics and engineering – and from different cultures. This has provided new perspectives on the challenges."
"The method was exciting but not easy", points out João. "I had to leave my comfort zone and start from scratch. It was challenging to think differently, and to focus on the project’s stakeholders."
And the art of presenting in under three minutes set high standards.
"I enjoy pitching an idea, even though it’s difficult, especially for me as an engineering student, jokes João."
They are in complete agreement on one thing.
– We’d love to come back to Gothenburg.
By: Allan Eriksson and Martina Sjövind
EUTOPIA is an alliance of ten European universities. The collaboration aims to prepare Europe for future local and global challenges. Projects and activities within EUTOPIA, such as the Innovation Challenge, receive funding from the European Union.
