Universities Act provides good basis for developing Aalto University
16.06.2009
On June 16th 2009 the Parliament approved the new Universities Act, which significantly enhances the development opportunities of research, teaching and artistic endeavors. The reform allows for the creation of preconditions for teachers and researchers to engage in tasks that correspond to their expertise and passion.
Releasing energy into teaching, research and artistic endeavors facilitates a new learning culture – one of motivated commitment into both learning and teaching.
The new law allows universities to develop their own activities in a persistent manner.
- This highlights the universities’ responsibility of their own personnel, as the entire university’s success is based on their welfare, achievements and work. The university cannot succeed without investing in its own personnel, says President Tuula Teeri.
According to the law, Aalto University will begin operations in the beginning of year 2010 and the Implementing Act that will come into effect in the beginning of August 2009 will create the prerequisites for fully launching Aalto University operations. The Boards of Helsinki School of Economics and the University of Art and Design Helsinki and the Council of Helsinki University of Technology will meet on August 14 to appoint the Board of Aalto University. In the future, as operations become established, the Board of Aalto University will be appointed by the joint administrative body of the universities, or, the academic committee.
Following the appointment of the Board of Aalto University, the appointment of President will be validated. During fall, the new bylaw will be approved and appointment of other administrative bodies and key persons in the new organization will be done. Administrative bodies in the foundation university include the Board, the President, and the committee for academic affairs.
According to the law, the foundation university may also have other organs, whose authority and responsibilities are stipulated in the bylaw. Aalto University’s other legislative organs include, for example, school- and faculty-specific panels. Aalto University’s new organization will become effective as from the beginning of 2010, but it will be used to prepare for new tasks already during fall this year.
- I am very pleased that we may launch Aalto University’s next preparation stage. We have been given an excellent opportunity to construct a unique new university. I wish to continue preparations for Aalto University in an open and interactive atmosphere also during next fall, states Tuula Teeri.
Further information:
President Tuula Teeri, Aalto University Foundation, e-mail: president [at] aaltouniversity [dot] fi
Project Director Jari Jokinen, Aalto University Foundation, tel. 0400 914 839, jari.jokinen [at] aaltouniversity [dot] fi
