Informal discussions regarding a potential merger between the University of Akureyri and the University of Bifröst have been initiated, according to reports on RÚV’s website. The respective rectors, Margrét Jónsdóttir Njarðvík of Bifröst and Elín Díanna Gunnarsdóttir of Akureyri, engaged in talks this morning. Both expressed a willingness to explore the feasibility and potential benefits of the merger. Plans are underway to seek a university partnership fund in October to support this initiative. Should the merger materialize, the combined institution would become the second-largest university in the nation.
The Minister of Universities, Industry, and Innovation, Áslaug Arna Sigurbjörnsdóttir, confirmed that conversations about mergers are underway between various universities. Following the recent letter of intent signing for the University of Iceland and University of Hólar merger, the minister anticipates updates on merger results in the upcoming semesters.