The engineering degree programme in Mechanical Engineering at Oamk University of Applied Sciences was awarded the European EUR-ACE label following an accreditation by the Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC). This was the first accreditation of the programme.
The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC) has updated its audit framework to respond to developments in higher education nationally and internationally. The new fourth cycle framework (2025–2030) addresses the core missions of HEIs, with a particular emphasis on strengthening high-quality education. The new framework also puts more focus on the connection between strategic management and the quality system.
Higher education in science in Finland is broad in scope and characterised by high scientific quality. It is grounded in multidisciplinary expertise and provides students with a solid academic foundation. However, systematic collaboration—both between degree programmes and with the world of work—still requires further improvement. Attention should also be paid to increasing the attractiveness of higher education in science, supporting students in their studies, and strengthening the recognition of teaching and pedagogical competence.
Building confidence for a sustainable future - evaluating education for sustainable development
What is the role of education and skills in building a sustainable future? How does education and training support equity, environmental and economic sustainability and social inclusion? How can we ensure that the education and training system achieves its objectives? Education evaluation has an important role to play in this respect, as a provider of national knowledge and as a support for the development of education and training providers and higher education institutions.
A new article on the initial competence of higher education students shows that students' competences have become differentiated across different fields of study. Differences in mathematical competence and previous educational paths are reflected in students' choices of study fields. There are also field-specific differences in study completion rates, meaning how often students complete their studies within the target time.
Towards a sustainable future – Blue Marble Evaluation as an enabler of systemic change
Have you ever wondered what Earth looks like from outer space? When we look at our planet as a ‘blue marble’, we see our shared home, not the boundaries and borders between states, sectors or organisations. Systemic changes are needed to salvage our common future.
The University of Vaasa (UVA) passed the audit conducted by the Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC). The university received praise from the audit team for diverse and vibrant cooperation with the industry in the region. The university benefits from the strong industry and work communities in the area. UVA provides excellent support services regarding student well-being and welcoming international students.
LAB University of Applied Sciences (LAB) received praise from the FINEEC audit team for the strategic goals set for the impact of its research, development, and innovation (RDI) activities and for the support for demanding innovation activities. LAB’s relations to the local actors in South Karelia and Päijät-Häme are close and interactive. However, the quality and adequacy of teaching and pedagogical solutions are to be carefully examined as a joint effort at LAB.
Humak University of Applied Sciences was praised by FINEEC’s audit team for its inclusive operating culture that encourages staff to experiment and engage in projects with partners. Humak has a clearly described RDI project process and its operations comply with agreed-upon operating procedures. Humak’s strengths also include its coaching pedagogy strategy and the coaching model based on it, which provide an effective framework for teaching and learning.