At a Turning Point, on Stronger Foundations
Jamk University of Applied Sciences stands at a turning point. We are entering a phase where the direction is clear, yet the opportunities are even greater than we can fully grasp. Change is not an end in itself, but a means to build stronger competence, more impactful research and development, and smoother learning pathways, writes Chair of the Board Sinuhe Wallinheimo.
Jamk has long been one of the strongest universities of applied sciences in Finland. Its strength has been the ability to combine education, working life and practical development in a way that is directly visible in the everyday operations of companies and organisations in the region. This foundation is not going anywhere. On the contrary, we now have an opportunity to strengthen it significantly.
A key development is the closer cooperation with the University of Jyväskylä. The strengthening of the university’s role as an owner is not merely an administrative arrangement. It is a strategic choice that lays the groundwork for a new way of working together. By combining the university’s strong research expertise with Jamk’s practical, application-oriented development approach, we can build a stronger foundation that serves students, businesses and the region better than ever before.
At the same time, it is worth noting that board work has got off to a promising start. Discussions have been open, constructive and, above all, forward-looking. Our shared intent is clear: we want to develop Jamk systematically over the long term and strengthen its role as part of a broader higher education framework.
Particularly in research, development and innovation activities, I see the future as highly promising. RDI collaboration is not only about projects or funding – it is above all about the ability to solve real-world problems. When research and practical application genuinely meet, real impact is created. Through this cooperation, Central Finland has the opportunity to strengthen its position both nationally and internationally.
Personally, I have a very positive feeling about this development. I am convinced that we can build cooperation in which the strengths of both partners are not only preserved but enhanced. Jamk’s role as a builder of practical competence and as a partner to working life will remain central. At the same time, cooperation with the university brings new dimensions that we could not achieve alone.
One of the most concrete opportunities relates to learning pathways. In the future, transitions from a university of applied sciences to a university, and vice versa, can become smoother and more purposeful. This is not only in the interest of students but of society as a whole. We need professionals who have both strong theoretical understanding and the ability to apply it in practice. Together, we can build such pathways more effectively.
At the same time, it is important to keep Jamk’s own identity clear. The role of a university of applied sciences is to remain close to working life, respond quickly to changing needs and produce competence that is visible in practice. This role must not be blurred. On the contrary, its importance will become even more pronounced as we operate as part of a larger whole.
The change ahead requires strong leadership, open dialogue and a shared commitment. When these are in place, the opportunities are significant. This is not just about cooperation between two organisations, but about the future of the entire region.
I strongly believe that we are building something sustainable and impactful – something that strengthens the vitality of Central Finland, supports business growth and equips students with even better tools for the future.
The direction is clear. Now it is time to move forward together.
Sinuhe Wallinheimo, Chair of the Board