VTT is developing, together with the University of Vaasa, Pääkaupunkiseudun kierrätyskeskus and Emmy Clothing Company, the TexMat deposit-return solution for textile collection that rewards consumers for returning their used clothes.
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The University of Vaasa reached a new milestone in the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2026 by securing the number one position in Europe for ‘Citations per Paper’. The university achieved a top score of 100, well above the ranking average of 36.7. This ratio measures the average number of citations obtained per publication, and is a proxy of the impact and quality of the scientific work done by universities.
The 58th anniversary of the University of Vaasa was celebrated on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, with the theme "Knowledge as foundation for resilience." Rector Minna Martikainen opened the event and the keynote speakers were Heidi Backman, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Education and Culture, and Joakim Strand, Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering. Additionally, awards for the research and teaching acts of the year, as well as the Student Union's Good Teacher Award, were presented.
The University of Vaasa’s new Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TLIC) supports the development of pedagogy, educational quality and digital learning solutions. The aim is to strengthen the university’s position as a modern and pedagogically advanced learning environment and to support its goals towards increasingly digitalised and student centred education.
During the anniversary celebration on Tuesday 27 January, the University of Vaasa awarded the Research and Teaching Acts of the Year. The Research Act of the Year 2025 was awarded to Professor Sami Vähämaa. Professor of Practise Elina Melgin, Professor Rebekah Rousi and Researcher Hanna Hietikko got the Teaching Act of the Year 2025 Award. University Teacher Otto Ellonen received the Good Teacher award, University Teacher Mirjam Särs received an honorary mention, and University Lecturer Laura Perttola was granted the Good Supervisor Award from the Students' Union of the University of Vaasa.
The University of Vaasa saw a record number of graduates with a master’s degree in 2025. The increasing number of graduates reflects the strong attractiveness of the university’s programmes and the smooth progress of studies. The university’s efficient education ensures that students advance well in their studies and graduate on time, which is also essential in meeting Finland’s growing need for skilled professionals.
The University of Vaasa hosted the Erasmus Mundus Smart Cities and Communities (SMACCs) Winter School from 12–16 January 2026, bringing together first- and second‑year students as well as faculty members from the programme’s partner universities across Europe.
The University of Vaasa has improved its results in the THE (Times Higher Education) World University Rankings by Subject 2026. In Business and Economics, the university climbed into the global top 300.
Doctor of Philosophy Rebekah Rousi has started as Professor of Communication and Digital Economy at the University of Vaasa in January. Originally from Australia, Rousi researches the interaction between humans and technology – including computers, robots, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Professor Martin Meyer will continue as Vice-rector for International Affairs at the University of Vaasa by decision of the Board. His term will run until 31 December 2027.