The New Vision for Higher Education 2040 Calls for Renewal

22.6.2026 — simo.vainionpaa@tuni.fi

The Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture published a new vision for higher education and research in June 2026, setting the direction for Finland’s future competitiveness, wellbeing, and skills development. [okm.fi] The core message is clear: education, research-based knowledge, and competence are the foundation of Finland’s success.

Ambitious national targets

The vision outlines concrete goals:

60% of young adults will hold a higher education degree
RDI investment will exceed 4% of GDP
the number of highly skilled professionals will increase
the higher education system will be renewed
[okm.fi]

These targets reflect a clear need to strengthen Finland’s competence base and innovation capacity. [okm.fi]

Lifelong learning becomes essential

As work and skills needs evolve rapidly, learning can no longer be limited to degree education. Higher education institutions are expected to support learning throughout entire careers. [karvi.fi]

What this means in practice for TAMK

At TAMK, these developments are already visible in concrete actions:

1. Open UAS and flexible learning pathways
Individuals can take individual courses or larger competence modules without committing to a degree. These can serve as a pathway towards degree studies or as a way to quickly update skills.

2. Digital access and platforms such as Opin.fi
Education becomes easier to find and access, enabling participation regardless of life situation.

3. Integration of RDI into learning
Students participate in real projects related to areas such as industrial digitalisation, safety and resilience, and robotics.
This ensures that research-based knowledge is directly applied in practice.

4. Strong collaboration with companies
TAMK works with industry partners to develop skills in areas like production, security, and emerging technologies, often through pilots and applied projects.

5. Short courses and micro‑credentials
Rapidly deployable training offerings address new technologies, regulatory changes, and immediate labour market needs.

Looking ahead

The vision challenges higher education institutions to renew themselves, but also provides a clear opportunity to strengthen their role as partners for working life. [okm.fi]

TAMK’s strength lies in its practical approach, combining education, research, and real-world needs.

In the future, the key is not only to graduate, but to keep learning continuously throughout life.

Written by:

Aija Paananen, PhD (tech.)

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