"Together, we can make a real difference in society"

It has now been two weeks since I once again had the privilege of standing in the auditorium at the Kårhuset to welcome new students to LTH. A few days later, the engineering students at Campus Helsingborg were also welcomed.

This is the best time of the year – when our students return and LTH opens its doors and community to new members. The week before, we welcomed international students who have chosen to come to LTH and Lund University.

It’s a wonderful feeling to walk through our buildings and green surroundings when they are once again teeming with students, after a summer of slumbering campus life. I would like to once again extend a warm welcome to all new LTH students embarking on an exciting education, and especially thank those who have travelled from near and far, bringing the world with them to LTH.

At LTH, we explore and create for the benefit of the world – together. Those of us who work here aim to equip you students with the tools for your future careers, so that you are prepared to contribute and create value in society alongside others.

As a faculty of engineering at a world leading university, we see our knowledge environments grow stronger and more creative when we bring diverse perspectives and experiences. With a broad student base, LTH strives for a culture characterised by inclusion and safety – and here, everyone should treat one another with respect. That culture is vital from day one, throughout your studies, and for all of us who work at LTH. I also hope you will carry this culture with you into your professional lives.

LTH and Lund University are located in the heart of a major labour market region, and the education you are now beginning will offer many opportunities to collaborate with future employers through various projects, internships, and degree projects. You will encounter guest lecturers in lecture halls and meet future employers at Arkad, the careers fair organised annually by Teknologkåren, the student union at LTH. With the Öresund Bridge and just a short train ride to Copenhagen, you are also in a region that opens up to the world and other parts of Europe, offering great opportunities for international connections.

We know that you students will be attractive to employers, and many of you will have jobs before you’ve finished your studies. But don’t forget to complete your degree! It will be important to you later in life.

Last year, 40 per cent of those who started at LTH were women, and I thought we had reached the ceiling. But no – this year, the proportion of women among new LTH students is 41 per cent. As Dean, I am proud that we are breaking the “single-gender” pattern that has long characterised technical education. These figures are especially encouraging when we know that around 38 per cent of all girls finishing upper secondary school are qualified to pursue a technical education. That LTH can welcome such a large proportion of this group feels particularly rewarding.

We all contribute to the LTH culture – with respect for each other’s differences – regardless of where you come from or who you are. Together, we can also make a real difference in society. LTH is a place for dreams and discoveries, for the benefit of the world.

I hope you’ve had a good start at LTH. Don’t forget fellowship and respect – and think of yourself as a problem solver for a better future!

Annika Olsson

Dean of LTH