ABSTRACT
Telemark faces several challenges, from an ageing population to low educational levels and increasing unemployment. This chapter discusses strategies and measures taken by both the region and Telemark University College (TUC) to challenge regional lock-in. TUC have for instance expressed in their strategies a need for strengthened collaboration with society and business. A decentralised structure of four campuses is supposed to make TUC a natural strategic partner to help tackle these challenges. At the same time, there is a struggle of balancing regional needs and research and education in a time of mergers and increased pressure of external funding.
