The Western Finland University Alliance strengthens the growth potential of the west coast – Centria, SAMK and SEAMK are forming a strategic alliance
The three universities of applied sciences in Western Finland – Centria, SAMK and SEAMK – are developing a completely new operating model and a joint strategy. Cooperation between these three independent universities of applied sciences will strengthen the vitality, expertise and growth of the whole of Western Finland.
Centria University of Applied Sciences, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK) and Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (SEAMK) form the Western Finland University Alliance. This collaboration is built on the strengths of each university of applied sciences, the identified needs of the regions and the opportunities jointly identified by the universities.
A distinctive feature of the alliance is the joint strategy to be developed for the three universities of applied sciences. This involves a deep strategic partnership between three independent universities of applied sciences, each of which is familiar with the strengths of its own region. Each higher education institution retains its own identity, decision-making and strengths, whilst deepening cooperation to make it even more goal-oriented.
A joint strategy, up to 10 joint degree programmes, and strong research and development
Underpinning this collaboration is a strategic partnership launched in 2024, which, according to the universities, has yielded tangible results such as joint research forums and joint projects, and has laid a strong foundation for deepening cooperation. This growing trust also enables the setting of more ambitious joint goals than before.
In the next phase, Centria, SAMK and SEAMK will develop a joint strategy and shared quality objectives. In the coming years, this collaboration will be reflected in broader study opportunities for students, joint degree programmes (up to 10 joint degree programmes within a few years) and new educational programmes. For businesses and the world of work, this means stronger research and development projects and an even broader network of experts. Higher education institutions are also seeking joint system and service solutions that will enable resources to be allocated more effectively to teaching, research and regional development.
Strengthening the success of Western Finland
Finland’s growth relies heavily on the vibrant regions of the west coast and Western Finland. Centria’s area of operation, South Ostrobothnia and Satakunta form a major hub for industry, exports, energy, entrepreneurship and expertise. These regions account for a significant proportion of Finland’s economic growth, and their businesses increasingly require a skilled workforce, research and new solutions to strengthen their competitiveness. The aim is to strengthen the success, expertise, competitiveness and conditions for growth across the whole of Western Finland, as well as to serve students and the working life even better.
– Western Finland is one of Finland’s strongest growth regions, and higher education institutions play a key role in this development. By combining our expertise and working together, we can serve students, the working life and our regions even better, state the rectors of Centria, SAMK and SEAMK jointly.
This collaboration will enable a more effective response to the needs of students, working life and the regions. Thanks to the combined study offerings of the three universities of applied sciences, students can supplement their degree with studies and specialist expertise not offered by their own institution. Joint study programmes and cross-institutional study have already been launched, and cooperation is set to expand further. The UASs’ international networks and European higher education links also open up new opportunities for students, staff and regional businesses.
A concrete response to the objectives of the higher education vision
The Western Finland University Alliance offers a concrete model for achieving the objectives of the Ministry of Education and Culture’s higher education vision: a stronger profile, collaboration, more impactful R&D activities, internationalisation and responding to the changing skills needs of the labour market.
Western Finland is ideally placed to remain the driving force behind Finland’s growth in the future. It is the role of higher education institutions to ensure that the expertise required for growth is available and that businesses in the region are able to innovate. The impact of these activities is enhanced through collaboration.
More information
Tapio Huttula, Centria University of Applied Sciences, rector, CEO
tel. 040 563 7944, tapio.huttula@centria.fi
Jari Multisilta, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, rector, CEO
tel. 044 710 3410, jari.multisilta@samk.fi
Jaakko Hallila, Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences, rector, CEO
tel. 040 868 0621, jaakko.hallila@seamk.fi