Last week, Valentina Chanina, EfVET Secretary General, had the opportunity to visit Esedu College, where she met stakeholders, teachers, vice principals, and students whose commitment to vocational education extends far beyond curriculum delivery. During her visit, she had the pleasure of meeting Arja Flinkman, CEO of Esedu, who introduced the college and the Finnish education system.
Arja Flinkman highlighted that “ESEDU College offers a concrete example of how vocational institutions can position themselves within this broader transformation. Through dialogue, commitment, and openness to change, Esedu contributes to a European VET landscape that is both resilient and future-oriented.”
ESEDU College is a vocational education institution dedicated to providing high-quality, practical learning that meets labour market needs. Its programmes are designed to equip learners not only with technical competencies, but also with transversal skills such as adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving.
The college places a strong emphasis on applied learning methodologies that connect theory with real-world practice. Industry engagement, project-based learning, and continuous dialogue between educators and leadership are at the heart of its educational approach. Beyond employability, ESEDU promotes inclusive education and personal development, fostering a learning environment where students can grow both professionally and personally.
The focus of the visit was to understand systematic approaches to skills provision in Finland, with particular emphasis on vocational education and training (VET), and how educational quality and VET excellence are ensured. The discussions went beyond an overview of programmes and infrastructure, prompting deeper reflection on the role of vocational education in a rapidly transforming Europe.
ESEDU recognises that vocational education is about more than acquiring skills; it also encompasses personal development, community engagement, and inclusive education. Its approach reflects a broader understanding of vocational excellence — one that balances employability, adaptability, and human-centred learning.
Day One
On the first day, Valentina met with Teppo Leinonen, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce (South Savo region), and Matti Malinen, Secretary General of the Mikkeli University Consortium.
Discussions with stakeholders focused on:
- The importance of lifelong learning
- Skills development
- Creating quality jobs
- The role of international students in the European labour market
Day Two
On the second day, she met with Esedu’s international team and the Development Manager to discuss new cooperation opportunities and explore potential initiatives.
Later, Valentina met Milla Laisi-Wessman, Director of Education at Samiedu Vocational College. The discussion addressed the role of VET in tackling skills shortages and supporting digital transformation, as well as how European education providers — including those in Finland — can strengthen their position within the European VET landscape.
Day Three
On the third day, Valentina visited the Mikkeli campus and learned how the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk) strengthens cooperation between vocational and higher education. As part of the INGENIUM Alliance of European Universities, Xamk is working to improve the transition from secondary and vocational education to universities of applied sciences.
Close collaboration agreements with regional VET providers, regular steering group meetings, and dedicated pathway studies (väyläopinnot) enable vocational students to earn UAS credits as part of their qualification. Through flexible open university studies and strong regional partnerships, Xamk promotes inclusive access, lifelong learning, and smoother transitions to higher education — benefiting both learners and the wider region.
Later in the afternoon, Valentina met Kirsi Malmstedt, Head of Skills Development for the forestry, agriculture, and horticulture sector and Vice Principal of Esedu. She also visited ESEDU’s logistics department to explore how the green transition is impacting heavy-duty vehicle maintenance and transport companies in South Savo. During the visit, she met Jan-Aulis Hiltunen, Jarkko Leppä, and Erkka Lohtander, and had the opportunity to test an electric truck.
Final Day
On Friday, Valentina visited Luovi Vocational College in Helsinki, a leading nationwide provider of vocational education and training in Finland, with over 30 locations including the capital region. Luovi focuses on delivering tailored vocational qualifications and preparatory education for young adults and adults with special educational needs. Jussi provided a guided tour of the facilities and classrooms.
The study visit concluded with a shared commitment to continue the dialogue and explore concrete pathways for future collaboration. This includes further engagement with stakeholders and VET providers to develop inclusive and sustainable labour market solutions. Working together with EfVET members and ensuring that every voice is heard will help position VET as a first-choice pathway.