Celebrating 30 Years of UWC Red Cross Nordic: Imagine…
In 2025, UWC Red Cross Nordic proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary. The journey began in the mid-1980s, driven by the vision of creating a Nordic UWC. The idea gained momentum in 1983 when Tom Gresvig, a former UWC student, initiated discussions about establishing a UWC in Norway with a Nordic approach. In 1986, the Foundation for a Nordic United World College was established, bringing together key Nordic supporters.
Finding the right location was crucial, and Fjaler in Sogn og Fjordane was chosen due to its educational traditions and strong local support. The Haugland Centre, operated by the Red Cross, became the ideal site, solidifying a partnership built on shared values of peace and humanitarianism. The project faced challenges, particularly in securing funding, but with dedicated lobbying and support from Nordic countries and private donors, the dream became reality. In 1993, the Norwegian government approved the grant, and construction began. On September 5, 1995, the application to become an IB school was accepted, and on September 30, the college officially opened with Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway, Queen Noor of Jordan, and adventurer Thor Heyerdahl among the distinguished guests.
The first 100 pioneering students from around the world laid the foundation for the vibrant, multicultural community we know today. Today it’s hard to Imagine Haugland and Fjaler without UWC Red Cross Nordic and the life 200 students from all over the world bring to the place. Imagine if Tom did not dream about a UWC in the Nordic and imagine if Fjaler did not have people like Magne Bjergene who moved mountains to make this happen. Our community has expanded, with over 3,000 alumni who are leaders, changemakers, and bridge-builders in their respective fields. Through our partnerships with the Red Cross, national committees, and other organizations, we have continued to uphold the values of compassion, inclusion, and action.
The motto for this special anniversary year, “Imagine…”, invites us to look forward with hope and creativity. It challenges us to envision a brighter future and to take bold steps toward realizing it. “Imagine” is not only a celebration of our achievements but also a call to action for the next generation of UWC RCN students, staff, and supporters to dream big and make a difference. As we mark this significant milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the countless individuals who have contributed to UWC Red Cross Nordic’s journey.
Over the past 30 years, UWC Red Cross Nordic has remained committed to fostering education for peace and sustainability, shaped by strong Nordic cooperation and Red Cross principles.
Year Representatives of the graduating class
Meaningful alumni engagement and relations at UWCRCN have been a focal point. Alumni are an integral part of UWC’s mission as they are our peacebuilders and creators of [...]
Council meeting spring 2022
UWC Red Cross Nordic is governed by a Board and a Council in accordance with the statutes of the Red Cross Nordic United World College Foundation. Over the [...]
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