News

Advancing EDI competences across Europe

Aalto University’s Center for Knowledge and Innovation Research (CKIR) has been part of a European project, EDIFY-EDU, supporting the development of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) competences in Finland and across Europe. The project created new learning materials, organized courses, and supported students’ internships both in Finland and abroad.
Three happy students working together
EDI stands for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Photo: Aalto University/Roope Kiviranta

EDI themes have become increasingly important in higher education and in working life. Through this project, CKIR worked together with European partners to strengthen EDI competences on multiple levels:

  • Learning contents and courses: The project developed EDI-related learning modules that were integrated into both international and national courses. Participants gained practical tools, knowledge and approaches that can be applied in their own organizations and everyday practices.
  • Student internships: the project enabled students to complete internships both domestically and internationally, giving them opportunities to apply EDI competences in practice and bring inclusivity into working life. Read Juho Karkinen's story.
  • Raising awareness and supporting competences: The trainings and materials helped participants to build confidence in discussing EDI topics and to integrate these perspectives into strategic leadership, teaching and organizational development.
     

Feedback highlighted that the courses and internships provided new insights as well as concrete tools, benefitting participants both personally and in their organizational contexts.

‘It has been inspiring to see how EDI perspectives can be turned into practical actions through teaching and collaboration. The project has not only developed tools and competences, but also shared commitment to building more inclusive higher education and working life,’ says Heini Ikävalko, Research Manager at CKIR at Aalto University.

‘Being part of this project has strengthened CKIR’s role as a developer of EDI competences. We are committed to continuing this work in research, teaching and collaboration with working life.’

To the project website: 
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion For improving the qualitY of Management EDUcation

Read also

students gathering

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the School of Business

At Aalto University School of Business we aspire to have a diverse and inclusive student pool and faculty.

School of Business
Picture from Aalto University's School of Business. The space has wooden floors, stairs, comfortable seating and people walking and sitting.

Center for Knowledge and Innovation Research (CKIR)

CKIR’s main research focus is on innovation ecosystems, ICT enabled service platforms and thus enabled new business dynamics.

  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!

Read more news

Tarun Sharma, wearing a black vest and grey sweater and sitting on a yellow bean bag chair, is talking and gesturing with their hands.
University Published:

Promote equality and non-discrimination in 2026 – apply for funding

The EDI funding is open to all staff members and students who are affiliated with the School of Business
People gathered outside a modern building with circular windows, reflected in glass. Trees and green grass in the background.
Cooperation, Studies, University Published:

Register for the Transregional Online Living Labs Day 2026

Join Unite!’s international, online conference to explore how University Campus Living Labs connect research, education and practice.
Four people standing in a spacious indoor area with signs above them. The floor is tiled and walls are white.
Appointments, Cooperation Published:

Hannu Martola appointed as Chair of the Aalto University Alumni Network Board

The board’s new members are Esa Arola, Eila Lindroos and Terttu Sopanen. Continuing members are Ari Bertula, Ossi Leikola, Laura Nikola and Katja Soini.
A close-up of various electronic waste pieces, including circuit boards, wires, and metal fragments in different colours.
Research & Art Published:

VTT, Aalto University and GTK: How to ensure Finland captures the multi‑billion growth potential of mineral economy

Finland is rising to the forefront of the mineral economy through new research initiatives and closer collaboration