In memory of King Harald V of Norway
A tribute by Tor Grande, rector of NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology
A king’s life of service has come to an end. King Harald of Norway served for 35 years. His life and reign encompassed many moments of significance, moments which meant a great deal to many people. He was a king of his time, one who understood both the long sweep of history and his constitutional role in society. Equally, he was a wise, compassionate and much-loved monarch who was committed to being there for all of Norway – both on occasions of celebration and in times of crisis.
Over the years, King Harald demonstrated a genuine commitment to research and knowledge, and their significance to society. This included attending the opening of the Natural Sciences Building at Gløshaugen, and fulfilling his role as High Patron of the Norwegian Academy of Technological Sciences with distinction. Through the Kavli Prizes, he helped elevate and highlight the importance of fundamental research. Several members of NTNU’s academic staff have received the King’s Medal of Merit and the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav, for their work and contributions to society. Many more have had the pleasure of meeting the King in their capacity as researchers or engaged students.
The King’s most recent visit to NTNU was in December last year. He opened the Norwegian Health Association’s Dementia Research Centre; an important initiative bringing together research on Alzheimer’s disease and the neuroscience of Nobel laureates Edvard Moser and May-Britt Moser. The centre is a close collaboration between the Norwegian Health Association, St. Olav’s Hospital and NTNU. It was a fitting opening for a research centre that could have a profound impact on many people’s lives. Attendees also noticed the King’s ability to see the people around him, as evidenced by the time he took to greet the youngest person present, who was just four months old. This was characteristic of a King who was always attentive to the people he met.
He made us feel seen and heard, regardless of age, title or background. He was there for us when we needed someone to turn to, whether during natural disasters or moments of profound national crisis. Following the terrorist attacks of 22 July, he gave voice to the grief of an entire nation and showed himself to be a king who shared in the sorrow of each and every one of us. Even at a time when almost every possible word seemed to have been exhausted, he reminded us to hold fast to our belief in democracy, freedom and the possibility of living safe and fulfilling lives in Norway. These are values that are also close to the heart of our university.
Norway has never been static. It is a country that has continually evolved, shaped by the people who, at any given time, have made Norway what it is. Few understood this better than King Harald, who carried out his role with warmth, generosity and wisdom. In King Harald’s Norway, there was always room for more, and he broadened our understanding of what it means to be Norwegian. For many Norwegians, he was more than a king. He was, rather, a father and grandfather to the entire nation – a person whose loss brings immense sadness.
We are grateful for everything he did to promote knowledge and science, both here in Norway and internationally. The King was an important voice and supporter, and on behalf of NTNU, I would like to express our profound gratitude.
May King Harald rest in peace.