In her speech at the opening ceremony of the academic year on 1 September 2025, Rector Sari Lindblom highlighted the importance of defending science and academic freedom and reminded decision-makers of the role of research and knowledge in safeguarding Finland's competitiveness and economic growth.
Dear members of the University community, dear excellencies,
Universities are not supposed to adapt to temporary uncertainties, but to seek the truth and foster hope precisely when it is at its most elusive.
This is why I wish to begin with an idea that I will come back to later: we are all here making breakthroughs on behalf of the world.
When I say "everyone", I mean all of us - students, researchers, teachers, specialists and advisors at University Services, alumni and partners.
In other words, an entire community that works for science, teaching and the future.
Research is a force for change that will turn Finland towards a path to growth. Research helps treat diseases, save the climate, develop novel technologies and transform societies.
