The 200th anniversary book about KTH is now being written

Why is KTH writing a jubilee book?

"The upcoming anniversary year in 2027 provides KTH with an excellent opportunity to take a collective approach to its own history and document it," Ewa Rönndahl, project manager for the communication around KTH 200 years and the anniversary book, says.

The aim is to create a coffee table book that can be given as a gift and remain relevant even after the anniversary year. The book will contain many pictures and stories about KTH and will be available in both Swedish and English editions.

"You should be able to open this book and start reading anywhere in it," Rönndahl says.

The book’s layout is finalized, with a lot to fit between the covers.

"There will be four main chapters, each covering 50 years of KTH’s history. These chapters will describe significant events within KTH and in the outside world. Between the main chapters, there will be various thematic sections, such as ‘Women at KTH’ and ‘Science and Art.’ These themes are not time-bound but span longer periods," Rönndahl says.

The book is being produced under the auspices of KTH, with several authors who have expertise in the subject contributing to the project. The main editor is Anders Houltz, associate professor of history of science and technology. He has a background as a PhD student and researcher at the Department of Historical Studies at KTH, where he has written and taught about the university’s history. He is currently head of research at the Centre for Business History in Stockholm.

"For me, this is an honorable assignment and a fantastic opportunity to delve into KTH’s history. Since my doctoral studies, I have been fascinated by its importance in Sweden’s modernization. It’s a marvelous story, and now we have the chance to tell it," Houltz says.

Editors now welcome tips from employees about important events in KTH’s history and people who have made an impact on the university and deserve to be highlighted in the book.

What do you hope for the finished anniversary book?

"I hope the book will show KTH both from the inside and the outside—what it is and has been like to study and work at KTH, and how the university has influenced social development. I also hope we can surprise readers with things they didn’t expect," Houltz says.

Rönndahl adds: "I hope the anniversary book will contribute to increased pride in KTH and teach both students and staff more about this fantastic place we are privileged to be part of."

Text: Marianne Norén