Why live in Ryfylke?

Ryfylke combines the tranquility of rural living with the opportunities of a thriving economy. Known for its strong communities and stunning landscapes, Ryfylke is a place where you can build a life close to nature without losing access to modern amenities. Whether it’s the industrious towns of Sauda and Tau, the agricultural heritage of Hjelmeland, or the riverside charm of Sand in Suldal, Ryfylke offers a balanced lifestyle for individuals and families alike.

Living in Ryfylke

Strand offers growing urban centers like Tau and Jørpeland, connected to Stavanger via the Ryfast tunnel, making it an ideal location for commuters. Hjelmeland blends small villages with fertile farmland, while Suldal’s center, Sand, is a lively riverside town with strong cultural and recreational offerings. Sauda, nestled in the mountains, provides an industrious and family-friendly environment, with excellent schools and facilities.

Daily life in Ryfylke revolves around its strong connection to nature and community. Locals enjoy a wide range of activities, from hiking and fishing to attending community events and participating in local initiatives. Public services, modern infrastructure, and a focus on sustainable development make Ryfylke a comfortable and forward-thinking region to live in.

Places to live in Ryfylke

Activities in Ryfylke

For families, Ryfylke provides a range of activities, from sports programs to outdoor adventures. Sauda, for example, is home to strong recreational facilities, including its ski center, which offers winter sports for locals and visitors. Hjelmeland and Suldal offer plenty of opportunities to connect with local food traditions, with farms and markets providing fresh, high-quality produce year-round.

Life in Ryfylke is about more than just living in beautiful surroundings—it’s about being part of an engaged and vibrant community.

Study in Ryfylke

Primary and Secondary Education

In Norway, municipalities are responsible for kindergartens and primary education (grades 1–10), ensuring accessible and high-quality education for young children. County authorities oversee upper secondary education (grades 11–13), which includes both general and vocational studies.

Upper Secondary Schools in Ryfylke

Ryfylke offers several upper secondary schools that provide diverse programs tailored to the region's needs:

• Strand Upper Secondary School: Located in Tau, this school offers a variety of programs, including general studies and vocational training. Notably, it provides specialized courses in aquaculture.
• Sauda Upper Secondary School: Situated in Sauda, the school offers programs in general studies and vocational training. It features specialized courses in ambulance services and heavy vehicle operation.
• ToppVolley Norge: Based in Sand, Suldal, ToppVolley Norge combines upper secondary education with elite volleyball training, attracting students nationwide who aim to excel in sports alongside their studies.

Adult Education and Lifelong Learning

• Ryfylke Learning Center (Ryfylke Utdanningssenter): Located in Suldal, this center offers adult education and vocational courses, supporting lifelong learning and career development in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology.

Higher Education

Ryfylke has proactively developed higher education opportunities within the region, collaborating with industry partners to design programs that meet local needs. This approach, known as the "Ryfylke Model," emphasizes flexible and decentralized education tailored to the community.

Current and Upcoming Programs:

• Bachelor in Nursing (180 ECTS): Offered from 2022 to 2025 in collaboration with the University of Stavanger, this program addresses the regional demand for healthcare professionals.
• Health, Environment, and Safety (60 ECTS): Running from 2023 to 2025, this program focuses on critical aspects of workplace safety and environmental health.
• IT, Digitalization, and Robotics (60 ECTS): Scheduled for 2023 to 2024, this course aims to equip students with skills in emerging technologies.
• Psychiatric Health Work (60 ECTS): Planned for 2023 to 2024, this program addresses mental health care needs in the community.
• Green Multifunctionality and Entrepreneurship (60 ECTS): Set for 2024 to 2026, this course focuses on sustainable practices and entrepreneurial skills.
• Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) (60 ECTS): Planned for 2025 to 2026, this program caters to the aquaculture industry's evolving needs.

Learning Norwegian

For newcomers aiming to learn Norwegian, Ryfylke offers several options to accommodate different needs and proficiency levels:

• Municipal Learning Centers: Local municipalities provide Norwegian language courses tailored to various skill levels, facilitating integration into the community. These courses often include both classroom instruction and practical language use, helping learners gain confidence in everyday situations.
• Online Courses: Various online platforms offer flexible Norwegian language learning options suitable for different schedules and learning preferences. These courses range from beginner to advanced levels and often include interactive elements such as virtual classrooms and language practice sessions.
• Language Cafés (Språkkafé): Some local libraries and community centers host language cafés, providing informal settings to practice conversational Norwegian with native speakers and other learners. These gatherings are valuable for improving language skills and expanding social networks.

Work in Ryfylke

Key industries and job opportunities in Ryfylke

Aquaculture and fisheries

The region's extensive coastline and clean waters make it ideal for aquaculture and fisheries. Companies engage in fish farming, processing, and export, providing roles in marine biology, operations, and logistics.

Agriculture and food production

Ryfylke's fertile land supports agriculture, focusing on fruit, vegetables, and livestock. This sector offers jobs in farming, food processing, and agribusiness management.

Renewable energy

With abundant natural resources, Ryfylke is investing in renewable energy projects, including hydroelectric power and wind energy. These initiatives create positions in engineering, project management, and environmental science.

Tourism and hospitality

The region's natural beauty attracts tourists, leading to opportunities in hospitality, guiding, and event management. Local businesses cater to visitors seeking outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Manufacturing and industry

Ryfylke hosts manufacturing firms specializing in machinery, metalwork, and construction materials. These industries require skilled labor in production, quality control, and maintenance.

Public services and education

Municipalities in Ryfylke offer careers in education, healthcare, and public administration, contributing to community development and well-being.

Why choose Ryfylke?

Ryfylke offers more than just a place to live—it offers a way of life. With its strong sense of community, excellent public services, and access to stunning natural surroundings, the region is perfect for those seeking balance and opportunity. Whether you’re looking to start a family, advance your career, or enjoy a quieter lifestyle with a sense of purpose, Ryfylke is ready to welcome you.