Skills and education
West Finland’s competence in education relies on multidisciplinary approach and modern education environment. In the region there are two universities, five universities of applied sciences and several other research institutions and vocational schools. Educational opportunities offered in West Finland focus on the region’s competence areas and they respond to the needs of the labour market.
Central Finland
Central Finland is a forerunner in learning and education, sports, technology, cybersecurity and bioeconomy. In Central Finland, the educational actors are working in close cooperation. Both national and international networks of knowledge, learning and innovation are actively developed. University of Jyväskylä, University of Applied Sciences (JAMK) and vocational institute Gradia form together EduFutura Jyväskylä to develop diverse knowledge and skills for the future of the region. Central Finland has strong experience in education export, such as in China, Qatar and Argentina.
Ostrobothnia
Ostrobothnia’s strength lies in cooperation between universities, businesses and industry. One of the flagships of the cooperation is the Technobothnia training and development center, owned by the University of Vaasa, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences and Yrkeshögskolan Novia University of Applied Sciences. Technobotnia develops solutions for IoT, robotics and 3D printing. The Digitalization Academy increases students’ competences in the knowledge and skills that the local companies need in the fields of digitalisation and energy. Vaasa University of Applied Sciences offers a programme focusing on energy storage, circular economy and battery technology.
South Ostrobothnia
Education in South Ostrobothnia is based on network collaboration. This includes Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences, the University Consortium of Seinäjoki, public authorities and other organizations representing higher education, companies and businesses. Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences is a multidisciplinary university that operates throughout the region, offering curricula in e.g. agro-economics, healthcare and technology. The University Consortium of Seinäjoki brings together approximately 90 experts and researchers from five different Finnish universities. The University Consortium and the professors of the EPANET research network enhance research and expertise in the region.
Satakunta
Research and educational institutions in Satakunta operate actively to boost innovations and internationalisation, and to create new knowledge for the region’s needs. Business and public sector cooperate with education and research to ensure skilled labour force and competitive R&D environment. In Satakunta, professionals are trained for the future needs of international maritime industry, and Satakunta University of Applied Sciences has successfully exported education in this field to Namibia. Education export to Asia and Africa includes technology, economics, and social and health care. Pori University Consortium is a multidisciplinary community brings together units from the Universities of Turku and Tampere. The University Consortium strengthens the academic expertise in Satakunta.