Over the past month, there has been extensive media coverage about the potential merger between South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (XAMK) and LUT University. The reporting has been inconsistent, and we, as the Student Union Kaakko, want to help clarify the situation. At this stage, we would like to remind every student at our university that no decisions have been finalized—discussions are still ongoing. The Chair of the Student Union Kaakko Board was also interviewed and asked to comment on the situation. 

Student Union Kaakko is committed to actively participating in these discussions, as advocating for the interests of our students is our primary responsibility. In summer 2023, the Trade Union of Education in Finland (OAJ) published a report on the functionality of universities of applied sciences operating as limited companies. This report highlights concerns that we share: the power held by owners can, in the worst case, be misused. An inappropriate ownership structure could, in the long term, be detrimental to the quality of higher education and to our own university of applied sciences. 

The report draws attention to Section 3 of the Universities of Applied Sciences Act, which defines the university of applied sciences community. This community includes teachers, other staff, degree students, and—according to Section 41—the student union, which is composed of students. The Act states: "The purpose of the student union is to serve as a link for its members and to promote their social, societal, and intellectual aspirations, as well as those related to their studies and status in society. The student union's task is to prepare students for active, aware, and critical citizenship." The university of applied sciences community must be involved in decisions that concern it. 

As the student union, we want to emphasize that we stand behind our university of applied sciences and value its autonomy. We call for the continuation of discussions to be as transparent and inclusive as possible, ensuring the participation of students, student associations, and the student union. Through open dialogue, information reaches the widest possible audience, and decision-making can take people's concerns into account. While collaboration between universities of applied sciences and universities is important, it can be achieved in ways other than ownership. 

For any questions, please contact:

Council President of the Student Union
Nelli Kortelainen
044 2105100
nelli.kortelainen@opiskelijakuntakaakko.fi 

Board President of the Student Union
Niko Heikkilä
niko.heikkila@opiskelijakuntakaakko.fi