The price tag does not solve the skills shortage

The strength of the Finnish education system is its free education and equality. Recently, the right of Open Universities to grant degrees has been discussed. Studying through Open Universities is an important pathway for those who want to complement their skills. However, if Open Universities begin to offer full degrees without a separate student selection process, it raises questions about equality and the fairness of student selections. If a degree can be completed through Open University without the same criteria as in the traditional selection process, there is a risk that the value and quality of the degrees could be undermined.

Sometimes a student may find that their first chosen field was not a right fit, or later in worklife they realize they want to switch careers. Changing fields is not a sign of a failure, but a desire to develop skills and find a new direction in the worklife. No one should have to pay for wanting to change direction or enhance their expertise. Free education strengthens Finland’s skill base and employment, as it allows people to pursue fields where they genuinely thrive and can succeed.

Quota for first-time applicants is being emphasized more and more, and there are plans to increase it. This already makes changing fields and retraining challenging. If tuition fees are added on top of this, it will close the doors of higher education to many. Such a system does not encourage learning, but rather punishes those who want to switch fields or develop their skills.

In Finland, there is already a group that has to pay tuition fees. Degrees for students coming from outside the EU and EEA are charged, and with full cost coverage, the price tag will increase even further. Tuition fees have already limited the socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds of students who are coming here. In practice, this means that many talented young people do not have the opportunity to study in Finland, even if they are highly motivated. This could weaken the appeal of Finnish higher education, if Finland becomes perceived as a destination only for the wealthy.

As the shortage of skilled professionals grows, we cannot afford to exclude anyone from education. Both Finnish and international experts are needed. Free education is not only a matter of equality but also an investment in Finland’s competitiveness and future. When people are given the opportunity to learn, develop their skills, and change fields, the whole society benefits.

More information:

Vilma Sippola

Chair of the Board