Stykkishólmur to establish a knowledge centre focused on research

Stykkishólmur has signed agreements to establish and develop a knowledge centre that will support research, education and innovation, mbl.is reports. The agreements were signed by Logi Einarsson, minister for higher education and innovation, and Jakob Björgvin S. Jakobsson, the town’s mayor.

The centre will conduct research into the ecosystem of Breiðafjörður, among other work. Its aims include raising education levels in the region and strengthening conditions for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Initially, the centre will operate from the town hall on Hafnargata in Stykkishólmur. It is intended to connect people, businesses, research and educational institutions, and other relevant partners.

Mayor Jakobsson said the work would focus in particular on the shoreline ecosystem and on developing the region through its local strengths and sustainable use of resources. He said the centre would build on existing activities, support joint projects in research, education and innovation, improve access to university study, provide facilities for entrepreneurs and help prepare applications to competitive funding programmes.

Establishing a knowledge centre was among the recommendations in a 2022 report by a working group involving Stykkishólmur, the Regional Development Institute and the Association of Municipalities in West Iceland. Strengthening research and educational activity has also been a priority for municipalities in West Iceland and the Westfjords.