Students protest in the Main Building of the University of Jyväskylä – Rectors understand the demands of the occupiers

The rectors of the University understand the demands of the occupiers and emphasize that the students’ message should be taken seriously.

“Students should have the opportunity and the money to focus on their studies,” says Rector Jari Ojala. “To improve the completion rate of studies, the study-related social benefits of students need to be preserved and the operating conditions and resourcing of the Finnish Student Health Service improved.

“Freezing the index increase of the student stipend makes it more difficult for many students to maintain their livelihood. Purchasing power is highlighted when talking about indexes, but for students in an economically weak position we should talk about coping in daily life, which is enabled by the index increase. The University of Jyväskylä does not consider the plan to make international students fully cover their own tuition fees to be realistic.”

“Universities have unanimously demanded additional resources so that they would be able to provide high-quality education and guidance for students,” says Vice Rector Marja-Leena Laakso. “Students have the right to a studying environment that is safe and of a high standard, research-based teaching, as well as high-quality quality guidance and support.”

The University and the Student Union of the University of Jyväskylä collaborate closely to secure the wellbeing of students.

Further information:

Vice Rector Marja-Leena Laakso, tel. +358 40 805 4024, marja-leena.laakso@jyu.fi