The Faculty of Pharmacy is all set for Almedalen Week 2026

“Almedalen is among the world’s largest democratic meeting places, and naturally we maintain a strong research presence on site. This summer, we set course for Gotland with a robust programme, highly qualified panels, and an ambition to contribute valuable knowledge on topics already high on society’s agenda,” says Mathias Hallberg, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy.

On Tuesday 23 June, Anja Sandström, Deputy Dean and moderator, introduces the seminar When AI Passes the Exam – Who takes Responsibility for Patient Safety? The discussion highlights how AI and advanced technologies challenge current forms of examinations — and, in the long term, trust in academic degrees. The audience will also be presented with an overview of the government assignment Mapping Measures Against Cheating in Distance Education.

“Today, technology is advancing faster than higher education can keep up with. We also see how students are sometimes ahead of their teachers, placing us in a new situation. Therefore, Swedish higher education institutions need resources to develop course content and examination formats to ensure every student enters professional life with the right knowledge. In parallel, we must emphasise that most students use AI in a relevant and responsible way, something that is not always reflected in the debate,” says Jörgen Bengtsson, panellist and Chair of the Master of Science Programme in Pharmacy at Uppsala University.

Wednesday 24 June, Åsa Konradsson Geuken participates in the seminar The Brain First – Guiding Children Through the Screen Jungle. Together with research colleague Klas Kullander, she will present a popular science explanation of why many of us so easily get stuck in front of mobile phones, computers, and TV's. Participants will also gain valuable tools for knowing when and how to switch off screens in time.

“While working on an upcoming popular science children's book, we have analysed how digital content shapes children's thoughts, feelings, and everyday life. At the seminar, we will present our conclusions and offer parents and educators concrete strategies for achieving a healthy balance between screen-free and digitally stimulating activities,” says Åsa Konradsson Geuken, researcher of Neuropharmacology and biological addiction.

Also present in Visby is U-FOLD – Uppsala University’s Forum for Research on Pharmaceutical and Drug Dependence — marking its fourteenth Almedalen Week. This summer, the forum will host three events addressing Drug Classification, Future Health Care and Support for People with Harmful Use and Addiction, and Girls in Crisis – Who Takes Responsibility?

“We are seeing a rapid increase in mental ill-health among girls and young women. We also know that hormonal cycles influence how the brain responds to alcohol, drugs, and medications. Yet healthcare still often uses boys and men as the norm. This means that many girls with ADHD receive delayed diagnosis and treatment, which in turn increases the risk of anxiety, addiction, and vulnerability. A more equitable healthcare system is essential, and the opportunity to meet both Lotta Borg Skoglund and Helena Kopp-Kallner in Visby promises a very engaging discussion,” says Mathias Hallberg, Chair of U-FOLD.

text: Magnus Alsne, photo: Mikael Wallerstedt a o