Universities of Applied Sciences, Ownership, and Collaboration were discussed on an October Afternoon

Universities of Applied Sciences, Ownership, and Collaboration were discussed on an October Afternoon

What is the future of research in universities of applied sciences (UASs) in the age of ownership and governance by universities? This question was raised in the online panel discussion organized by Researchers Professionals in Universities of Applied Sciences (Samkot). Nearly 70 participants joined the event to reflect on this multifaceted theme on an October afternoon. Three panelists working in different UASs approached the topic from their own perspectives.

Sami Savolainen, Director of Services at Turku University of Applied Sciences, examined corporate governance practices of UASs in group structures in his 2022 doctoral dissertation. In his presentation, he outlined various forms of ownership governance and the current state of ownership in UASs. Savolainen argued that university owners have shown greater interest than municipalities in directing the core functions of UASs and in seeking synergies in RDI support activities. In the discussion, he emphasized that UASs should take pride in their own work rather than overly adopting university models. Collaboration between UASs and universities is not currently a major challenge; the key issue lies in engaging companies more actively in RDI activities.

Professor Mika Hannula, President of Tampere University of Applied Sciences, challenged the panel’s title and noted that the concept of “group university” should not be overemphasized in this context. In Tampere, he has not observed clear ownership steering from the university side, approaching the matter instead from a perspective of collaboration. In his presentation, Hannula reflected on the shared foundation between UASs and universities: both are, in their English names, “university of something,” despite differences in emphasis. Organizational form and structure, he argued, are not decisive; knowledge capital is the most critical factor. Hannula also introduced Tampere University of Applied Sciences’ new doctoral pathway, which enables staff to pursue doctoral degrees within the group, supported by the institution as an employer. He stressed that UASs must remain competitive employers, and expressed confidence that they can succeed in this goal despite financial constraints.

Meri Jalonen, Chief Specialist at LAB University of Applied Sciences, brought the perspective of research professionals to the discussion through both her own experience and her role as a deputy member of the board of the Union of Research Professionals. Jalonen described the recent efforts at LAB University of Applied Sciences to strengthen research expertise. One concern she mentioned was the separation of research activities from other RDI operations following the establishment of new research groups. While the LUT Universities Group appears very unified externally, Jalonen noted that collaboration between the university of applied sciences and the university still relies heavily on personal relationships. In doctoral education, the group is launching a new initiative where full-time doctoral researchers will join LAB’s research groups under joint supervision with LUT University. Jalonen also pointed out that universities could learn from UASs, for example, in more professional leadership practices and in favoring permanent employment contracts.

The discussion was moderated by Hanna Timonen, Vice Chair of Samkot. The event’s chat featured active questions and comments on topics including doctoral education, regional differences, and factors influencing the attractiveness of UASs.

(M365 Copilot has been used in producing the English translation.)