A forward-looking policy in step with the times

If it matters anywhere to be on your toes, it is in the continuing and further education sector. Mímir aims to always offer individuals and workplaces a sought-after range of courses and services that enhances people's skills and knowledge in their professional and personal lives. Market needs are constantly evolving, and so Mímir decided to begin a strategic process with the key stakeholders involved in its operations. „We at Mímir believe this is the right time to take a closer look, define our capabilities and competencies, and ensure we are positioning ourselves correctly for the future,“ says Sólveig Hildur Björnsdóttir, Managing Director of Mímir, at the start of an analysis meeting held at Mímir on Thursday, 24 February.

Dialogue between stakeholders provides a clear vision

Nearly 40 people took part in the meeting, which is the first step in Mímis's strategy development. In addition to Mímis staff, the meeting was attended by representatives from Mímis's teaching staff and students, representatives from the Mímis board from the trade union movement, and representatives from various partner companies and institutions. „We reached out to our various partners to get a clear picture of what we are doing well and what we can do even better. It was a concise meeting where various issues were reviewed, and discussion groups addressed pre-determined key issues,“ says Sólveig Hildur. In total, there were four discussion groups: new trends and developments in education, the state of continuing and professional development, social conditions, and competition. The discussions were lively and it is fair to say that the chair, Einar Birkir Einarsson, a specialist, was outstanding, leading discussions that will provide Mímir with the tools to set its future strategy.

Mímir provides people with the opportunity to develop their skills and succeed in the future's job market.

Sólveig Hildur says that competence and skill development is a key issue in all areas of society. „The future arrived early, at least in terms of technological change, and the pandemic has undoubtedly had an impact on that. Technological development is rapid. Likewise, climate change calls for increased sustainability, not least in the labour market. Jobs will change considerably over the next decade. More jobs will be created, many of which will require new skills—skills people should acquire to have a chance of a successful future in the labour market,“ says Sólveig Hildur, continuing: „Further education centres like Mímir are, in effect, competence development centres. They work with individuals and workplaces to enhance the skills that are needed at any given time.“

It is important to look inwards.

In a conversation with Sólveig Hilda, it is noted that it is beneficial for everyone to look inwards and examine what is being done well and what could be improved. „Strategic planning is carried out in several stages, but the final outcome will be the course we set for the future. Mímir will turn twenty this year, and it is fitting to celebrate the anniversary by giving Mímir a makeover and even changing gear where necessary. The turnout was particularly good and the results are promising. We are in the midst of taking this work forward and I look forward to reporting on the results in more detail later. I would also like to thank everyone for the good and lively discussions. At first glance, it seems to me that this work has already yielded us considerable results,“ concludes Sólveig Hildur.