His Majesty King Harald V Has Passed Away
We mourn the passing of His Majesty King Harald V.
“His Majesty King Harald V was a warm, generous, and courageous person. These qualities made him a unifying monarch. He conveyed clear messages about belonging and tolerance in a diverse Norway. The King was a great role model for us all. We thank the King for his many years of service,” says Rector Solfrid Lind.
Our thoughts are especially with the Royal Family at this time, and we remember a King who stood steadfastly by his country and its people.
At Kristiania, we are flying our flags at half-mast and honour his memory with peace and gratitude.
Following the passing of His Majesty King Harald V, we have established memorial areas in Oslo and Bergen. Here, students and staff may gather, light candles, and write messages in a book of condolences.
Memorial tribute from the Universities Norway (UHR)
National Period of Mourning
Following the passing of His Majesty King Harald, the Government has declared a national period of mourning that will last until the day of the funeral. Teaching, research, and other activities at Kristiania will continue as planned during this period.
In line with the Government's guidelines, academic activities and events may proceed as normal, but within a dignified framework that acknowledges the nation's mourning.
Social events organised by Kristiania that do not have a direct academic or work-related purpose may be postponed or cancelled during the mourning period.
Student associations and other student organisations are encouraged to make their own assessments of planned activities in light of the national period of mourning.
Kristiania will provide further information about the day of the funeral and any commemorative activities at our campuses in due course.
The King's Funeral on 9 September
King Harald's funeral will take place on 9 September at Oslo Cathedral, close to Kristiania's campuses in Kvadraturen.
Kristiania wishes to contribute to a dignified national commemoration while ensuring a safe and predictable study and working environment for students and staff.
Teaching, Meetings and Events
Kristiania will cancel all teaching activities, meetings, and events between 12:00 and 15:00 on 9 September across all campuses in Oslo and Bergen.
Teaching and activities scheduled outside this period will proceed as planned.
In line with the rest of the country, a one-minute silence will be observed at 13:00 across all Kristiania campuses.
Restricted Access Around Kvadraturen
The area surrounding Kristiania's premises in Kvadraturen will be subject to extensive security measures on this day. Kirkegata and several nearby streets will be closed for parts of the day. Oslo Cathedral is located in the immediate vicinity of campus, and representatives of royal families, governments and international delegations are expected to attend.
Visitors, students and staff should allow extra time for travel and access to campus. Public transport services in central Oslo will also be affected.
Live Broadcast of the Funeral
Kristiania will provide facilities for students and staff who wish to follow the funeral via a live broadcast on campus.
The broadcast will be available at the following locations:
- Kvadraturen: Ernst Hage
- Urtegata: Krydderhylla (Rom U-205)
- Bergen: Room 212
Security and Updates
Kristiania is in ongoing dialogue with the relevant authorities regarding matters that may affect campus activities.
This page will be updated regularly should new information become available regarding practical arrangements related to the funeral.