Strengthening Educational Ties between Finland and India: Punjab Government Signs Agreement with University of Turku
The State Council of Educational Research and Training, Government of Punjab, signed a landmark agreement for cooperation in education development with the University of Turku, Finland, on September 26. A ceremony to commemorate this occasion was held at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi on September 27. Dignitaries present included the Ambassador of Finland to India, Mr. Kimmo Lähdevirta, and Shri Harjot Singh Bains, Education Minister, Government of Punjab. As part of the agreement, elementary school teachers and school heads/administrators from Punjab will participate in a three-week Professional Training Programme at the University of Turku. This training will focus on early childhood and primary education, providing comprehensive exposure to Finland’s world-renowned education system. Participants will also visit Finnish schools and classrooms, gaining valuable insights into pedagogical approaches, leadership and working life skills, and the integration of technology in education.
Ambassador Kimmo Lähdevirta said, "This partnership between the Government of Punjab and the University of Turku is a significant step in strengthening educational collaboration between Finland and India. Education is a key pillar of our bilateral ties, and I am pleased to see that through this initiative, Finland’s best practices in education will be shared with Indian educators. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to both the Government of Punjab and the University of Turku for their efforts in making this initiative a reality."
Speaking on the occasion, Punjab School Education Minister Mr. Harjot Singh Bains said, "I am very happy that today MoU has been signed with Finland, which will strengthen the primary education structure in the state of Punjab, besides strengthening the cultural exchange between India and Finland."
Dr. Liisa Toivonen, Counsellor for Higher Education and Science Policy at the Embassy of Finland, added, "This training programme offers Indian educators a unique opportunity to experience the principles and methods that characterize the Finnish education system. By focusing on leadership, curriculum development, and pedagogical innovation, we hope to equip teachers from Punjab with the skills, knowledge and new ideas that will positively impact their students and communities back in India."
The agreement marks another important milestone in the growing partnership between Finland and India, particularly in the field of education. Both nations remain committed to fostering collaboration that will benefit future generations of students and educators.
Finland is recognized for having one of the highest-quality education systems in the world. The Finnish education system prioritizes early childhood education and care, viewing it as the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Teachers in Finland are highly respected professionals, trusted to innovate and explore new approaches in the classroom. This commitment to excellence and the empowerment of educators has helped Finland consistently rank among the top performers in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).
In addition to its robust educational framework, Finland offers an extensive range of advanced educational technology for all levels of learning, encompassing both formal and extracurricular education. Finnish educational institutions and companies are eager to collaborate with international partners, sharing their expertise and working together to drive innovation in learning.
