By Jeanette Arboe, Institute for Advanced Study in PBL

Monday, 18 August was a day of celebration at Aalborg University when colleagues, partners and representatives from both local and international institutions gathered at the reception to celebrate the renewal of the Centre for Problem-Based Learning in Engineering Science and Sustainability (UCPBL). 

The renewal means that UCPBL continues to be a UNESCO Category 2 Centre, which is a network of the world's best institutions in the organization's domains of competence. 

Milestone for the work on PBL and sustainability

"The fact that UCPBL has been renewed as a UNESCO Category 2 Centre is a significant recognition. It confirms that the work done by UCPBL has international relevance and impact," said Pro-rector Anne Marie Kanstrup in her remarks at the reception. 

She highlighted the centre's contribution to global education and sustainability and thanked the many actors who have contributed to the process – including the research management, the ministry, Aalborg municipality, the UNESCO delegation and AAU's legal department.

Strategic asset for AAU

Dean Thomas Bak, who is also chair of UCPBL's Advisory Board, emphasized the centre's role as both a research platform and a global network:

"It gives us a unique opportunity to influence the global agenda for engineering education and sustainable development," he said.

He emphasized the Advisory Board's role in ensuring the centre's strategic direction and highlighted that the renewal is more than a formality – it is a commitment to continued development and knowledge sharing.

Future goals

With the new agreement between UNESCO and Aalborg University, UCPBL commits to:

• Promoting interdisciplinary education in engineering and sustainability
• Developing a global network of experts and institutions
• Developing international research and PhD training in PBL
• Strengthening cooperation between the Global North and Global South

Strong foundation for the future

"UCPBL plays a leading role in generating new knowledge on how PBL can support interdisciplinary learning, promote critical thinking and contribute to sustainable development," said Anne Marie Kanstrup.

The reception concluded with networking, conversations and a celebration of the centre's future opportunities.

Translated by LeeAnn Iovanni, AAU Communication and Public Affairs