Finland's Technology Industry Pushes for 70% Higher Education Rate by 2040

Finland's technology industry is advocating for a significant increase in the nation's educational attainment, proposing that 70 percent of young adults aged 25-34 should hold a higher education degree by 2040. This ambitious goal, championed by Technology Industries of Finland (Teknologiateollisuus), aims to secure the country's future economic growth and competitiveness in a global landscape. The target notably exceeds the Finnish government's current objective of 50 percent by 2030.

The initiative was highlighted by entrepreneur Peter Vesterbacka, known for his work with Angry Birds, during a recent high school seminar in Salla. In a tweet, Vesterbacka stated, > "Teknologiateollisuuden 70% korkeakoulutettuja tavoite hyvin esillä täällä Sallan lukioseminaarissa @MinnaHelle Tekemisen kautta!" (Technology Industry's 70% highly educated target well presented here at the Salla high school seminar @MinnaHelle Through action!). This underscores the industry's commitment to fostering a highly skilled workforce from an early stage.

Minna Helle, CEO of Teknologiateollisuus, has emphasized the critical need for this elevated educational standard. She stated that Finland, as a small export-driven nation, relies on innovation, top-tier expertise, and high productivity, all of which necessitate substantial investment in education, research, and development. Helle noted that the current rate of higher education among young adults is approximately 40 percent, and while the government's 50 percent target would halt a decline in human capital, it is insufficient for sustained growth.

The 70 percent target is considered ambitious but achievable, with Teknologiateollisuus pointing to examples from Singapore and South Korea, which achieved similar educational leaps within 10 to 15 years. The industry's proposal also broadens the definition of "highly educated" to include individuals with significant higher education studies, even if they have not completed a full degree, acknowledging their valuable contribution to the workforce. This approach emphasizes practical competence alongside formal qualifications.

Peter Vesterbacka has been a vocal proponent of educational reform and international student programs through his Finest Future initiative, which aims to attract foreign high school students to Finland. While his efforts have faced scrutiny regarding funding and student welfare, his presence at the Salla seminar alongside Minna Helle signals a unified front in promoting advanced education as a cornerstone of Finland's future prosperity. The focus remains on "Tekemisen kautta!" (Through action!), highlighting a practical, hands-on approach to achieving these educational benchmarks.