IBU and Nord University in Meråker sign Partnership Agreement

The IBU and Nord University in Meråker (NOR) have officially entered into a partnership agreement, marking another important step in strengthening the IBU’s academic network. The agreement was signed by the IBU President Olle Dahlin and Nord University Dean Rose Martin during a visit to the University’s well-equipped campus and training facilities, followed by the official signing ceremony and a dinner attended by university representatives and the Mayor of Meråker.

With this agreement, Nord University becomes the IBU’s sixth academic partner, joining the Norwegian School of Sport Science in Oslo (NOR), Mid Sweden University in Östersund (SWE), the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice (POL), the Swiss Federal Institute of Sport in Magglingen (SUI), and the Institute for Applied Training Science in Leipzig (GER).

The collaboration between the IBU and Nord University is built on an already strong foundation. The two institutions have been connected for the past two years, including through an IBU-funded research grant project conducted by Nord University. In addition, the University offers study opportunities for international students as a dual career pathway for biathletes.

Nord University researchers, including Guro Strøm Solli and Per Øyvind Torvik, have also been actively contributing to the IBU Academy Coach Education Programme as lecturers and educators for several years. Through the new agreement, these joint activities will be further strengthened and developed.

Per Øyvind Torvik (Nord University) and Gerold Sattlecker (IBU Academy) will act as coordinators of the partnership, ensuring the continued development and implementation of joint initiatives.

This expanded academic network reflects the IBU’s continued commitment to innovation, research, and high-quality education, supporting the long-term development of biathlon worldwide.