Community Voice Survey: two strong foundations, one common path

Responses strongly emphasized that the new higher education community should be based on the identities and strengths of JYU and Jamk. The dual model is a starting point based on legislation, and maintaining it clearly was also considered important from the students' perspective. Preserving the special characteristics of both institutions is essential – the strength of the community lies in its diversity.

When asked how the respondents see our community, the following concepts rose to the top: expertise, education, community spirit, well-being, and humanity. These are also considered important in everyday student life, such as in the smooth progress of studies, encounters, and community events.

How does the change feel?

The change evoked a variety of feelings, but overall the mood was cautiously positive. The average score on the survey's mood indicator was 6.45 (on a scale of 1-10), which indicates that many believe the community can be even stronger in the future.

With regard to students, the open responses focused particularly on:

• the smooth running of everyday student life (e.g., effective services, clear communication, functionality of facilities)

• uncertainty related to the change process

• the need to ensure the quality and academic level of degrees

• the desire that not all services or functions be combined by force, but rather by genuinely considering the benefits

Many also hoped that communication about the construction and progress of the higher education consortium would be understandable, concrete, and up-to-date.

How will the work continue and how will students be involved?

The results of the survey will be discussed in several joint working groups during the spring and will be used in particular to articulate the desired state of the community experience. In addition to the survey results, the outcomes of the Competent and Well-being Higher Education Community workshops held in February, which were attended by approximately 50 students and staff members, will also be examined.

Students form the largest group in our higher education community, and their views are essential in building a shared future. Therefore, students will continue to be involved in various ways: through surveys, workshops, and in cooperation with JYY and Jamko. The aim is to ensure that the students' voices are heard at all stages.