The University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University wish to deepen their long-standing collaboration in research, education and societal impact.
The University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University have reviewed the content of their partnership agreement, which was drawn up ten years ago. The partnership will continue to be based on the distinctive characteristics and strengths of both universities, which complement each other in research and education.
Together with the region’s universities of applied sciences, the universities form a diverse cluster of expertise that generates well-being and international competitiveness across society as a whole.
“The University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University will continue to profile themselves in their respective areas of strength while also utilising each other’s expertise. We are deeply intertwined and have been collaborating effectively for over a century. The collaboration between higher education institutions in Turku is a fine example of networked, results-oriented collaboration,” says Rector of the University of Turku Marjo Kaartinen.
“Collaboration strengthens our universities both academically and strategically. Multilingualism fosters a dynamic and international learning environment. A good example of this is bilingual medical training. Multilingualism is not just a tool, but an asset that makes us stronger and more attractive globally,“ says Rector of Åbo Akademi University Gunilla Widén.
Over the past decade, the strategic partnership has improved the use of the universities’ resources, particularly in terms of facility solutions. Examples of shared buildings include Aurum on the University Hill and Geohouse, located next to the Turku Court of Appeal.
The universities also share several cutting-edge research infrastructures. Internationally renowned and influential joint units include Turku Bioscience Centre and the PET Centre, in which Turku University Hospital is also a partner.
In basic degree education, the collaboration is reflected in extensive opportunities for cross-studying and joint study modules. In doctoral training, the universities collaborate closely in many fields as well as in dissertation supervision.
The higher education institutions in the region engage in various forms of joint advocacy work, such as in sustainable development and EU advocacy. Affordable and diverse sports opportunities are available to the universities’ students and staff through the joint CampusSport service.
