Purpose
The overall goal of the Centre for Security, Crisis Management and Emergency Preparedness (SKB) is to develop research-based knowledge on safety, crisis management and emergency preparedness.
By connecting people, disciplines and levels of society – from individual situational awareness to national system understanding – SKB aims to strengthen Norway’s overall resilience and preparedness.
The centre serves as a meeting place for researchers and practitioners who collaborate to develop, share and apply knowledge across disciplines, sectors and administrative levels. It is regional, national and international in its orientation, and aims to be perceived as useful and relevant for all actors working with societal safety and preparedness.
The Mandate of the Centre
Research and Collaboration
SKB brings together several academic environments at the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) and contributes to increased insight into societal vulnerability, prevention and crisis management. The centre also facilitates innovation and value creation within industry and business. Through collaboration with public and private emergency actors, authorities, organisations and businesses, SKB promotes robustness, learning and development throughout the entire preparedness chain – from prevention and planning to response and recovery.
Activities
The centre conducts and participates in research projects, develops applications for external funding and takes part in national and international research networks.
SKB involves researchers, practitioners and students in its projects, hosts research seminars and an annual conference, and contributes to the development of USN’s educational programmes within societal safety and emergency management. Through academic contributions, lectures and participation in public debate, the centre actively shares and communicates its knowledge to a wider audience.
Organisation
The USN School of Business serves as the host faculty for the centre. The centre director is responsible for coordination and follow-up in accordance with USN’s guidelines for research and innovation centres. An internal working group, consisting of representatives from all faculties and the central administration, coordinates activities and fosters collaboration across academic environments.
Advisory Board
SKB also has an Advisory Board with representatives from the public, defence, municipal, business and voluntary sectors within the USN region (Vestfold, Telemark and Buskerud).
The group provides advice on the centre’s strategic development, contributes to the dissemination of results and strengthens networks between the centre and external partners. Through advisory input, communication, networking and partnerships, the reference group helps ensure that SKB remains a relevant, applied and forward-looking research and innovation centre.