25 APRIL 2002
Already well-versed in the field, Princess Victoria of Sweden is further enhancing her knowledge of global affairs by enrolling at the University of Uppsala to study international relations with a focus on democracy, peace and development. It seems her father King Carl XVI Gustav has advised the 24-year-old royal to take the course, a fundamental step for the post she’ll one day occupy as the nation’s queen.

“I’ve never had an interest in this type of material,” says Victoria, “but it is absolutely necessary for my preparation as future head of state.”

The princess heads to the historic university daily to sit alongside 30 other students from Europe, Africa and South America in Professor Peter Wallensten’s Peace and Conflict Resolution class. The £4,600 course, consisting of intensive research and analysis, won’t lead to any type of degree, but is a logical step for the princess. She already has stints with the United Nations and the Swedish Ministry of Defence under her belt, and just recently returned from a tour of Uganda through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.

While she studies the global scene, Victoria’s upcoming official duties are much closer to home. On April 28, she’ll inaugurate the Dunkers house of culture in Helsinborg, and she’s expected to attend the wedding of Princess Martha Louise of Norway in May. And the second week of June, the princess will be an integral part of celebrations as the city of Stockholm celebrates it’s 750th anniversary.