Advisory board appointed for the higher education consortium formed by the University of Vaasa and Vaasa University of Applied Sciences

The advisory board's role is to monitor the development and construction of the consortium, strengthen collaboration, and address issues related to national higher education policy from the perspective of developing the Vaasa higher education consortium. The advisory board is not a decision-making body, and its appointment is the responsibility of the University of Vaasa's board.

 – The University of Vaasa, the university of applied sciences, and the city are now closer than ever. Through the advisory board, we further strengthen cooperation between the higher education institutions, the city, and local businesses to support the export industry and services in the Vaasa region. Major changes are taking place in Finland’s higher education landscape, and our important task is to reinforce the position of Vaasa’s higher education institutions nationally, says Matias Mäkynen, Chair of the Advisory Board and Member of Parliament.

Mari Kiviniemi, Chair of the University of Vaasa’s Board, emphasises the importance of the advisory board in achieving the consortium’s goals.

 – The advisory board is a key forum for ensuring that the new consortium meets its objectives. Through collaboration, we can aim for a strong position not only nationally but also internationally. This will help us create expertise in the Vaasa region that supports its business sector and society as a whole, says Mari Kiviniemi.

Members of the Advisory Board for the term ending 31 July 2027:

University of Vaasa:
Mari Kiviniemi, Chair of the Board
Juha Kytölä, Director R&D and Engineering, Vice Chair
Minna Martikainen, Rector
Marko Kohtamäki, Professor
Merja Koskela, Professor

City of Vaasa:
Marko Heinonen, City Council Member
Harri Moisio, City Council Member
Matias Mäkynen, City Council Member, Chair of the Advisory Board
Monica Sirén-Aura, City Council Deputy Member
Tomas Häyry, Mayor

Ostrobothnia Chamber of Commerce:
Tuula Hautamäki, Director
Mikael Hallbäck, Director
Jyrki Rantala, CEO

Oy Vaasan ammattikorkeakoulu – Vasa yrkeshögskola Ab:
Hannu Vahtera, President and CEO
Marja-Riitta Vest, Director of RDI

Student representatives:
Jenni Hiltunen, Chair of the Student Union Board, University of Vaasa
Jimi Oosi, Chair of the Student Union Board, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences

The University of Vaasa holds a 70.4% ownership share in the consortium, while the City of Vaasa holds 29.6%. The University of Vaasa acts as the parent organisation, with Oy Vaasan ammattikorkeakoulu – Vasa yrkeshögskola Ab as its subsidiary. Within the consortium, both higher education institutions operate as independent entities.