At SAMK, sustainable international education means responsible, transparent and high-quality education that supports students’ success, integration and employment. We educate international students to support the availability of skilled workforce in Satakunta and Finland, provide accurate information, treat all students equally, support them throughout their study journey and continuously develop our activities.
At SAMK, sustainable international education means responsible, transparent and high-quality education that supports students’ success, integration and employment. Our activities are guided by fairness, cooperation and continuous development.
We educate international students to support the availability of skilled workforce in Satakunta and Finland
We provide accurate and realistic information to applicants and partners
We treat all students equally and promote fairness and non-discrimination
We support students throughout their study journey and integration
We continuously monitor and develop our activities
What does sustainable international education mean at SAMK?
Our role in Satakunta and Finland
SAMK educates experts, supports working life and promotes regional development. Its vision is that every student graduates and finds employment. International education helps ensure access to skilled workforce in Satakunta.
Why international education matters
Competition for skilled professionals is global and increasing. International students, especially from outside the EU and EEA, support the availability of skilled professionals and strengthen regional expertise. They also strengthen the international nature of the higher education community.
What sustainability means in our work
Sustainable international education at SAMK covers ethical, social, financial and ecological responsibility. The same principles apply to all international activities. Our work is guided by responsibility, openness and community.
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What do we promise to students and partners?
Fairness, equality and human rights
We treat all students equally throughout the application process and their studies. We promote equality, non-discrimination and respect for diversity. Individual needs are taken into account as part of fairness.
Transparent and accurate communication
We provide applicants with realistic information about studying, living in Finland and employment opportunities. Our aim is to support informed decisions. All materials for applicants and partners are transparent and truthful.
High-quality and relevant education
Our degree programmes are designed to meet the needs of regional business and industry. We focus on supporting students’ progress, graduation and competence development. Quality and continuous improvement guide our work.
Supporting employment and opportunities
We aim to support students’ employment in Finland and especially in Satakunta. At the same time, students make their own career choices. Their right to decide their future is recognised.
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How do we support students throughout their journey?
Before arrival
We provide guidance through webinars, meetings and materials before studies begin. Students and their families can take part. Our aim is to ensure a safe and informed start.
Arriving and settling in Finland
We support students’ arrival with local partners and services. Housing solutions and settling-in support are developed together with the cities. Peer tutors, student mentors and staff help students settle into study and daily life.
Student services and wellbeing
Students receive guidance and support throughout their studies. Services cover learning, wellbeing and everyday life. Support is provided by teacher tutors, student counsellors and the wider higher education community, including partners such as the Finnish Student Health Service.
Language, integration and employment
Students can study Finnish and develop language skills that support integration and employment. Cooperation with local actors supports networking and participation. Practical training and guidance help students find work opportunities.
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How do we ensure responsible and reliable practices?
Safe and ethical international cooperation
We follow Finnish legislation and international agreements. We balance risks and benefits in international cooperation. We apply a zero-tolerance policy to corruption.
Clear processes and realistic expectations
We provide clear information about studies, processes and timelines. We also communicate openly about possible delays and uncertainties. This helps students understand what to expect. SAMK supports students in their studies, practical training and job search, but students are also expected to take an active role themselves. The primary goal is to complete the degree on time.
Financial and environmental responsibility
Tuition-fee-funded education must be financially sustainable. Tuition fees cover the costs of education in line with legislation. We also reduce environmental impact by using digital solutions and careful planning.
Working with trusted partners and networks
We select, train and monitor partners carefully. Partners must follow ethical guidelines and provide accurate information. We cooperate in national and international networks that promote responsible practices.
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How do we improve and develop our activities?
Feedback and quality systems
We collect feedback regularly from students, partners and staff. Feedback covers recruitment, studies and cooperation. We use it to improve our work.
Monitoring outcomes and impact
We monitor students’ progress and employment outcomes. We also evaluate recruitment and partnerships. This helps us develop our activities.
Developing services and education
We develop education and services through cooperation, research and continuous quality improvement. Staff are supported with training for international work. Development projects support integration and employment.
Continuous improvement
Our activities are guided by quality systems and planning processes. We continuously evaluate and improve our work to support students, the organisation and the region.
