Hovedforedrag

Hovedforedrag, or main lecture, is a formal keynote presentation at a conference, congress, or similar gathering. It is typically delivered by a distinguished speaker and designed to introduce the event’s theme, provide an overview of important developments, and set the tone for the program. The hovedforedrag is usually addressed to a broad audience, including attendees from related disciplines, and aims to present big ideas, overarching trends, or provocative questions rather than a narrow technical report.

In many events, the hovedforedrag occurs during plenary sessions at the opening or sometimes the closing day, and it may be followed by questions or discussion. The length varies but commonly ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the format of the conference.

Speakers are usually selected by the organizing committee or invited by organizers, based on their expertise, reputation, and ability to communicate effectively with a diverse audience. The talk often strives to be accessible, integrating context, implications, and possible future directions rather than densely technical material.

The hovedforedrag is distinct from regular conference presentations or panels; it is a highlight designed to attract attention, frame critical themes, and stimulate engagement across the event. In Norwegian usage, the term is widely used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to denote this flagship lecture.