Doctoral Training Pipeline Shrinks and International Attrition Rises The Norwegian PhD pipeline is contracting, especially in STEM fields, with many candidates abandoning research before completion [1]. Nearly half of new PhD fellows are international scholars, and about half of those leave Norway after graduation [1]. A significant share of candidates never finish their doctorate, raising concerns about talent loss [1]. These trends threaten the country’s capacity to generate advanced knowledge for industry and public sectors [1].

Government Forms Expert Panel to Overhaul PhD Education The government established an expert panel to redesign doctoral education to meet future research, labor‑market, and societal needs [1]. The panel’s mandate emphasizes that robust PhD training underpins national adaptability and competitiveness [1]. It will evaluate how PhDs can serve academia, industry innovation, emergency response, health, green transition, and public administration [1]. Stakeholders expect the panel’s work to align Norway with European standards [1].

Five Recommendations Target Curiosity Research, Industry Links, and Dropouts The first recommendation safeguards curiosity‑driven research and aligns programs with European principles to ensure international compatibility [1]. Recommendations two through four call for mapping industry value of researcher skills, expanding career routes beyond academia, and simplifying residence and work permits for foreign scholars [1]. The fifth recommendation orders a targeted investigation of high dropout rates, comparing Norwegian and international candidates to identify academic and non‑academic causes [1]. Implementation aims to retain talent and broaden PhD career mobility [1].

Parallel Higher‑Education Reforms Include Funding, Grants, and Digital Fraud Centre The Ministry announced softened Lånekassen grant rules so compensation for serious illness or injury no longer reduces award amounts, announced by Minister Sigrun Aasland [2]. NTNU launched the Secure Anti‑Fraud Excellence (SAFE) centre in Gjøvik, a five‑year, NOK 50 million project to study financial‑sector cybercrime [2]. OsloMet will pilot paid kindergarten placements for up to 50 student teachers starting autumn 2026, with plans to expand by 2030 [2]. Additional developments include the Norwegian Polar Institute gaining full voting rights on the European Polar Board and the ANSA Juvenarte awards highlighting Norwegian art abroad [2].