Students from FOM University of Applied Sciences Visit the University Centre of the Westfjords
Students from FOM University of Applied Sciences stayed at the University Centre of the Westfjords from June 15 to 26. The visit was part of FOM’s summer programme in Iceland, where students attended English-taught courses in digital transformation and sustainable leadership.
During their stay, the students had a unique opportunity to connect academic learning with the environment and community of the Westfjords. The courses explored, among other things, the impact of digital development on business and organisational structures, as well as the importance of communication, intercultural competence, self-reflection, and ethical approaches in modern management and leadership.
Besides intensive seminars in the classroom, the students got to know Ísafjörður and surroundings and took part in field trips and company visits. In Bolungarvík the group was given a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes at the fish processing company Jakob Valgeir, a combination of manual labour and sophisticated machinery. Afterwards the students learned at the maritime museum Ósvör, a replica of an old Icelandic fishing station from the 19th century, how fish was processed 200 years ago. Under the guidance of course instructor Ketill Berg Magnússon the students visited Ísafjörður based medical technology company Kerecis and wrapped up the summer school at the Blue Bank in Þingeyri, before continuing to Dynjandi to celebrate the end of the program with a small picnic and ceremony.
FOM University of Applied Sciences is a German university with a strong focus on study programmes designed to be completed alongside a professional career. It strives to offer academically sound study programmes for working professionals and secondary school graduates, in close connection with the labour market. The university has more than 10,000 collaborations with companies, municipalities, and associations, and is supported by around 1,500 lecturers with extensive professional experience.
The summer programme in Iceland offers students a memorable learning experience in the heart of the spectacular nature of the Westfjords, where academic studies, international exchange, and a strong sense of place come together.
The University Centre of the Westfjords warmly thanks the students and instructors from FOM for an enjoyable stay in Ísafjörður and the Westfjords.