utbildningsdepartementet

Utbildningsdepartementet, also known in English as the Ministry of Education and Research, is a department of the Swedish government responsible for national policies and legislation related to education at all levels and research. The ministry oversees everything from preschools and compulsory schooling to universities and vocational training, as well as scientific research institutions and innovation initiatives.

The department’s headquarters are located in Stockholm at the Ministry of Education and Research building, and it is headed by the Minister for Education and Research. In addition to the minister, the ministry employs specialists in education policy, curriculum development, research funding, and international cooperation. The current minister is Anna Ekström, who has served since January 2021.

The ministry’s statutory duties include formulating and implementing national curriculum frameworks, setting standards for teacher training, developing educational equity programs, and ensuring compliance with international agreements such as the Bologna Process. It also administers significant research funding programmes, advises the government on science and technology strategy, and promotes the integration of digital technologies in schools. The ministry maintains close collaboration with the Department for Higher Education and Research, the Swedish Research Council, and regional educational authorities to coordinate national and local educational initiatives.

Historically, the department has evolved from a 19th‑century education authority into a modern, research‑oriented ministry that emphasizes evidence‑based policy. Key milestones include the 1980 introduction of the comprehensive school system, the 1990s expansion of adult education, and the 2010s focus on lifelong learning and digital transformation. It continues to adapt to societal changes such as demographic shifts, labour market demands, and global learning trends.